Senate President Godswill Akpabio has apologised to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over a denigrating remark he made towards her on the floor of the House.
Recall that the former Akwa Ibom Governor had last week cautioned the senator representing Kogi Central for speaking without being recognised.
While Natasha rose to aire her view without the Senate President’s approval, Akpabio in return said, “You see Senator Natasha, in the chamber, you have to be recognized before you speak. We’re not in a nightclub.”
Akpabio, has, over the week, faced several backlash following the comment by netizens who accused him of objectifying the lawmaker based on her gender.
He was recently also accused of having numerous girlfriends amongst Nigerian celebrities, including the married ones.
Bowing to pressure on Tuesday, the Senator appealed to Natasha over his comment, stating that he would never deliberately denigrate a woman.
He opened up that several unknown numbers have been sending messages of insults to him regarding the issue.
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.
“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.”
On the accusation by a popular blog that he uses public funds to finance the lifestyle of some actresses for sexual favours, Akpabio said the claims are untrue.
He stated that according to his religion, he is married to one wife, whom he finds beautiful, and is content with her.
Meanwhile, Actress Dakore Egbuson, who was named among Akpabio’s girlfriends has also denied the allegation and threatened to sue the blog if it doesn’t bring down the post and apologise to her.
