The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has challenged the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development to present any evidence of corruption against her in court. This follows a summon of 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, following a petition by some contractors alleging non-payment for contracts they had executed for the Ministry.
Established Civil Service Regulations Followed
In a statement issued by her aide, Musa Abdulrahaman, the ministry emphasized that all program and project payments are meticulously authorized, following established civil service regulations. The approval procedures involve the Director of Finance and Accounts, with final assent by the Permanent Secretary, who serves as the ministry’s accounting officer.
Minister Files Defamation Lawsuit
The minister has decided to abstain from making further remarks on the issue, as she has filed a lawsuit (Suit No. E 500/2024) against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, the chairperson of the committee, for libel and defamation. In the spirit of due process, Kennedy-Ohanenye encourages the presentation of any evidence or proof by the committee or whosoever of alleged misappropriation in the court of law.
Commitment to Judicious Use of Resources
The minister has reiterated her commitment to using the ministry’s resources judiciously for the benefit of Nigerian women and children. She has stated that there will be no room for financial recklessness or misappropriation of resources and that every training program will be backed up with sustainable empowerment initiatives.
Previous Defamation Lawsuit
This is not the first time the minister has taken legal action against allegations of wrongdoing. In June, Kennedy-Ohanenye filed a N1 billion defamation of character lawsuit against Hon. Ogbara following an interview on Arise TV, where Ogbara stated that there were “many petitions” against the minister and that she was under investigation. As the investigation continues, the Minister of Women Affairs remains steadfast in her commitment to transparency and accountability within her ministry. The legal battle between the minister and the committee chairperson is expected to shed light on the allegations and the ministry’s financial practices.