Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in a plenary, scolded Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central for addressing the Senate when she was not called to speak, saying the Senate is not a “nightclub.”
Speaking on the floor of the Red Chamber, Akpabio reaffirmed that he never intended to insult any woman.
Akpabio mentioned that his phone had been overwhelmed with insults regarding the issue.
The incident occurred last Thursday when Akpabio rebuffed Natasha while she attempted to speak without being invited to during his speech.
He remarked, “Senator Natasha, you cannot speak without being asked or invited to speak in the Senate. This is not a nightclub.”
He added that it was his wife, whom he respects greatly, who brought the matter to his attention.
Akpabio said, “I will not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women. Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologize to you.”
He continued, “The interest shown on social media indicates that we have enemies. I felt I should tender a public apology to you.
“I do not mean any harm. People should focus on things that will move this country forward. Social media handlers should practice with decorum.
“We won’t regulate social media out of anger.”
Akpabio also denied social media claims that he has “numerous girlfriends.”
He stated that according to his religion, he is married to one wife, whom he finds beautiful, and is content with her.
