Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has firmly denied claims that she accepted a bribe to support suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in her sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Ezekwesili, known for her strong advocacy on justice and accountability, has been vocal in demanding a thorough, independent investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims.
She has repeatedly called for Akpabio to step aside to allow for an impartial inquiry into the senator’s petition.
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However, last Thursday, UK-based activist Sandra Duru—popularly known as Professor Mgbeke—alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan fabricated the harassment claims and confided in her that Ezekwesili had been financially induced to offer public backing.
Responding on Saturday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ezekwesili dismissed the accusation as absurd and baseless.
“I see how my unwavering support for your cry for justice has sent your adversaries into a frenzy—resorting to desperate, laughable falsehoods,” she wrote, addressing Akpoti-Uduaghan.
She further stated: “No sensible and decent person who knows my incorruptible track record is deceived by the ridiculous fabrications being peddled by your traducers. They know—without a doubt—that no amount of money, not even all the wealth in every Central Bank in the world, can buy my convictions, voice, and stance on any matter I choose to support.”
Ezekwesili reaffirmed her commitment to justice and pledged continued support for the embattled senator:
“Our commitment to justice is unshaken, and we will not relent until justice is served.”
The tension between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio dates back to February when the senator publicly accused the Senate President of sexually harassing her on multiple occasions—both in his office and at his residence in Akwa Ibom State.
The accusation followed a heated dispute in the Senate chamber, reportedly triggered by a disagreement over seating arrangements.
In response to the altercation, the Senate on March 6 suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing “gross misconduct.”
