Former Nigerian Minister and renowned advocate for women's rights, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has spoken out following a heated exchange between her and Senator Sam Ominyi Nwaebonyi, highlighting the larger issue of the challenges Nigerian women endure in the face of political and societal adversity.
The altercation, which took place during a recent Senate session, has drawn attention to the gender biases and systemic discrimination that often plague the political sphere in Nigeria. Dr. Ezekwesili, who is well-known for her work in education and governance, noted that the exchange underscored the harsh realities women face when they speak out or challenge the status quo in a male-dominated political environment.
In a statement released to the media, Ezekwesili explained: "The heated exchange with Senator Nwaebonyi is a stark reminder of the kind of disrespect and disregard that women in Nigeria face when they assert themselves in spaces that have long been dominated by men. This incident is not just about me; it represents what countless women endure every day in public life, business, and even within their communities."
Dr. Ezekwesili continued by stressing the importance of empowering Nigerian women to take up leadership positions and ensuring that the political landscape becomes more inclusive. She called for an urgent need to address gender-based inequality in Nigerian politics, noting that women often face greater scrutiny, harassment, and disparagement than their male counterparts.
"The exchange we witnessed in the Senate is just one example of the kind of public shaming that many women in leadership roles face. It’s time to recognize that when women step into the political arena, they should be treated with the same respect, professionalism, and decorum that is extended to men. We cannot allow these outdated gender dynamics to continue dictating the rules of engagement," she said.
Ezekwesili also urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast in their pursuit of equality and to continue pushing for meaningful change across all sectors of society. She expressed confidence that as more women rise to leadership roles, they will be able to reshape the narrative and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.
"I remain committed to the fight for women's rights, equality, and empowerment. Every Nigerian woman deserves the opportunity to succeed without fear of discrimination or harassment. I call on my fellow women, especially those in politics, to stand firm and support one another in this crucial journey toward real transformation," Ezekwesili added.