The Northern Renaissance Network (NRN), a governance advocacy group, has demanded that former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili address explosive allegations of accepting bribes to support Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in a sexual harassment case against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The claims, leveled by Dr. Sandra Duru in a viral video, accuse Akpoti-Uduaghan of admitting to financially incentivizing Ezekwesili and others—whom she allegedly dubbed “useful idiots”—to bolster her accusations against Akpabio. Duru further alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to bribe her to join the campaign, an offer she claims to have rejected.
The NRN condemned the allegations as a “serious betrayal of public trust,” warning that they tarnish Ezekwesili’s legacy as an anti-corruption advocate and risk undermining Nigeria’s broader fight for ethical governance. “These accusations strike at the core of integrity Dr. Ezekwesili has long championed,” the group stated, emphasizing that silence would deepen doubts about her credibility. They urged her to provide a transparent rebuttal, stressing that public figures owe Nigerians accountability.
The group framed the controversy as emblematic of attempts to manipulate public discourse for political gain, calling the allegations a “grievous dent” on efforts to promote moral leadership. NRN spokesman Agada Abuh Theo reiterated their commitment to truth and justice, pressing Ezekwesili to act swiftly to salvage her reputation.
