By John Alechenu, Abuja

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has apologized to his colleague, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over comments he made while shutting her down during plenary last week.

The Senate President had told Akpoti-Uduaghan not to speak without him recognizing her to do so. Adding, the Senate is not a “nightclub.”

His comments caused a storm on social media with various women’s groups calling him out for being sexist and insulting women.

In his apology, which he tendered during Tuesday’s plenary, Akpabio said he would never intentionally denigrate any woman.

He said, “I will not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women.

“Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologise to you.

“The interest shown In the social media shows that we have enemies. I felt I should tender a public apology to you. I do not mean any harm. People should concentrate on things that will move this country forward.

“Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”

Akpabio also denied social media posting claims that he has “numerous girlfriends”.

I have only one wife and she is enough for me.”