Kennedy-Ohanenye to reps panel: Present evidence of corruption against me in court

Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, minister of women affairs, says all payments for contracts and project approvals in the ministry followed “established civil service regulations”.

The house of representatives committee on women affairs and social development, chaired by Kafilat Ogbara, had summoned the minister over alleged corruption in her ministry. 

The committee is investigating the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion earmarked for the payment of contractors.

Some contractors had petitioned the committee, alleging non-payment for contracts they had executed for the ministry.

During the hearing on Tuesday, members of the committee and the minister engaged in a heated argument on the subject. 

In a statement issued on Thursday, Musa Abdulrahaman, an aide to the minister, said Kennedy-Ohanenye “presented comprehensive documentation and explanations to address the rumours or allegations of misappropriated funds”.

“The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs emphasizes that all program and project payments are meticulously authorized, following established civil service regulations,” the statement reads.

“Approval procedures involve the Director of Finance and Accounts, with final assent by the Permanent Secretary, the Ministry’s accounting officer.

“The Honourable Minister also presented Supporting documents to substantiate the accuracy of all financial transactions.

“Barr. Ohanenye has decided to abstain from making remarks or comments on this issue as she has filed a lawsuit (Suit No.E 500/2024) against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara for libel and defamation.

“In the spirit of due process, the Minister encourages the presentation of any evidence or proof by the Committee or Whosoever of alleged misappropriation in the court of law.”

Abdulrahaman quoted Kennedy-Ohanenye as saying that no funds have been misappropriated in the ministry.

“As far as I am the Minister of Women Affairs, I will continue to use the resources judiciously for the benefit of Nigerian women and children, there will be no room for financial recklessness, misappropriation of resources and every training will be backed up with sustainable empowerment,” the minister said.

In June, Kennedy-Ohanenye filed a N1 billion defamation of character lawsuit against Ogbara.

The suit followed an interview on Arise TV on June 5, wherein Ogbara said there were “many petitions” against the minister and that she is under investigation.