The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, has taken legal action against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, a member of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs.
This is as a result of an ongoing investigation into alleged embezzlement within the ministry.
The Ministry of Women Affairs, through a statement by Musa Abdulrahaman, the minister’s aide, confirmed the development.
Also, the statement refuted allegations of financial misconduct and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Earlier this week, the House of Representatives, led by Ogbara, questioned Ohanenye regarding the non-payment of ₦1.5 billion to contractors despite the release of funds.
Also, the lawmakers scrutinized the minister for various expenditures.
This includes ₦45 million for a New Year party, ₦20 million for sanitary pads, and ₦1.5 million for vehicle fuel.
In response to the allegations, the ministry clarified that “all financial transactions undergo rigorous authorization procedures in accordance with established civil service regulations.”
It said further that the procedures involve scrutiny by the Director of Finance and Accounts, with final approval by the Permanent Secretary, the Ministry’s accounting officer.
It added that Uju Kennedy presented supporting documents to substantiate the accuracy of all financial transactions under scrutiny.
Also, the ministry said Ohanenye has chosen to refrain from further public commentary on the matter, instead opting to initiate legal proceedings against Ogbara for alleged libel and defamation.
Also Read: #WalkAgainstCorruption: Nigerians React To EFCC Protest
“The Minister expressed confidence in the judicial process and urged the presentation of any evidence or proof of alleged misappropriation in a court of law,” the statement concluded.
Gaza War: UN Condemns Isreal’s Evacuation Order Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict
