Reps query Women Minister spending practices

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10 months ago

The House of Representatives has raised concerns about the expenditure practices of the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, specifically questioning the spending of N45 million on a New Year party, N20 million on sanitary pads, and N1.5 million on vehicle fuel.

These concerns were brought to light during an investigative hearing led by Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs.

The committee sought to uncover the truth behind these allegations, following a petition from contractors claiming non-payment for services rendered to the ministry despite the release of these funds.

She said that the investigative hearing was aimed at uncovering the truth and not witch-hunting the minister and the officials of the ministry.

The committee also sought clarification on funds appropriated for the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.

Rep. Ogbara questioned the minister directly, asking, “What was budgeted for 2023 from the accountant-general’s office? Was it released to the account of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs? Yes or no?”

Marie Ebikake, another committee member, accused the minister of sidelining ministry staff, stating, “Fortunately, I attended the last meeting, and one of the reasons why we took you on oath was to get the truth from you, and today you have deviated.”

Before Ebikake could finish, she was interrupted by the minister.

Mrs. Kennedy-Ohanenye strongly denied the allegations of misappropriation, overspending, and non-payment to contractors, expressing her frustration: “I take exception. I don’t like this allegation.

“I am no slave to anybody. She should withdraw that statement she said about me. It is not fairness here. It is a trap but I am not going to jump into it. I fear nothing… nothing!!”

The hearing soon devolved into a shouting match, with accusations flying between committee members and the minister. This intense back-and-forth led the committee to adjourn the hearing indefinitely.

During the proceedings, the procurement officer confirmed the contractors’ claims, and the Director of Finance and Administration acknowledged that only approved contracts had been paid.

The committee had previously summoned the minister to explain the rationale behind the non-payment of funds to contractors.

In a major move, the committee ordered the stoppage of all 2024 contract processes by the Ministry of Women Affairs until the whereabouts of the funds for the said contracts are determined.

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