Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, has ignited a storm of reactions after asserting that, by social stratification, he ranks above former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili.

Nwaebonyi, in a statement that has drawn widespread criticism, insisted that senators hold greater status than ministers, implying that Ezekwesili should accord him more respect.

“She was a minister, and a senator is bigger than a minister. She is supposed to respect me,” he declared.

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His remark has triggered debates on political hierarchy in Nigeria, with many questioning whether respect in governance should be based on rank rather than service and impact.

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Ezekwesili, known for her outspoken activism and governance reforms, has yet to respond directly, but political analysts suggest Nwaebonyi’s comments may further fuel tensions between Nigeria’s legislative and executive figures.