A group of professionals from the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District in the diaspora has strongly criticized the backlash against Senate President Godswill Akpabio following his recent altercation with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The dispute, which occurred during a Senate plenary session last week, stemmed from the relocation of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat—an action she openly protested.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Moffat Ekoriko, the group defended Akpabio’s conduct, asserting that he acted within parliamentary rules as the presiding officer.
They also dismissed criticisms from former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, who suggested that the Senate President had a bias against female lawmakers.
The statement read in part: “We view with disdain the comments of Oby Ezekwesili, who implied that the Senate President has an issue with female legislators.
Senator Akpabio has a well-documented history of promoting women’s empowerment. As Governor of Akwa Ibom State, he ensured that women occupied at least one-third of elected and appointed positions.”
The group further highlighted Akpabio’s track record, stating that under his leadership, local government councils had women serving as vice chairpersons or even council heads—policies they argue contradict any claims of gender bias.
The professionals condemned what they described as an orchestrated campaign of blackmail against Akpabio, urging critics to refrain from personal attacks and allow the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to handle the matter.
They reaffirmed their confidence in Akpabio’s leadership, emphasizing his role in strengthening collaboration between the legislature and the executive for national development.“Senator Akpabio is an accomplished public servant who deserves respect.
We reject any attempt to undermine his person or office and stand firmly in support of his leadership,” the statement concluded.
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