Alleged N138m diversion: Why I honoured EFCC invitation — Uju Kennedy

Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has broken her silence after being questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of diverting ₦138 million during her tenure.

In a statement, Kennedy-Ohanenye explained that she willingly honored the EFCC’s invitation on March 6, 2025, and provided comprehensive clarifications on her actions and expenditures as Minister of Women Affairs.

She commended the EFCC for their professionalism and hospitality, acknowledging the importance of accountability in ensuring transparency in government.

Kennedy-Ohanenye also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their support during her tenure.

The former minister emphasized her commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that she and her team executed their duties diligently, utilizing available resources effectively and even supplementing with personal funds.

“As a former public servant, I acknowledge that inquiries regarding past official activities are a standard part of ensuring accountability. In this spirit, I willingly honoured the invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on March 6, 2025.

“Concerning allegations of a 138 million Naira diversion. I arrived at the EFCC headquarters at 2:15pm, and the substantive discussions commenced at 2:50pm. During this time, I provided comprehensive clarifications regarding my actions and expenditures throughout my tenure as the Minister of Women’s Affairs.

“I rounded up by 6:50 pm and left thereafter I commend the EFCC for their professionalism and hospitality, and I appreciate the opportunity to address the matters that have recently been circulating in the media.

“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the privilege of serving my country and positively impacting the lives of many.

“I also express my appreciation to First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her steadfast support of myself and Nigerian women. I remain fully committed to cooperating with the EFCC and will be available for any further inquiries.

“It is the duty of every government official to be transparent and accountable for their time in office.

“During my tenure, my team and I executed our duties diligently, utilizing available resources effectively, and even supplementing with personal funds, demonstrating our dedication to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerian women and children.

“I assure you that the facts and information will ultimately demonstrate the integrity of my actions.”

Kennedy-Ohanenye’s questioning by the EFCC comes after her removal from office in a cabinet reshuffle by President Tinubu in October 2024.

ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE