Uju Kennedy Ohanenye
By Akeem Atoyebi
Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, said she was interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriation, procurement violations, and diversion of public funds totalling N138,413,253.89.
She made this known made the in a statement she personally issued on her X page on Friday evening.
She stated that she arrived at the EFCC headquarters at 2:15pm on Thursday and the interrogation began at 2:50pm and lasted till 6:50pm.
Recall that the former minister reportedly arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Thursday morning, where she was subjected to rigorous quizzing in respect of her alleged involvement in unclear financial activities.
The investigation allegedly focuses on funds allocated in the 2023 budget of the Ministry of Women Affairs, which were allegedly diverted for personal gain.
Investigators had uncovered breaches of due process in the ministry’s budget disbursement, with funds intended for the P-BAT Cares for Women Initiative allegedly misappropriated.
In the statement, Ohanenye said, “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 2:15 PM, and the substantive discussions commenced at 2:50 PM.
“During this time, I provided comprehensive clarifications regarding my actions and expenditures throughout my tenure as the Minister of Women Affairs. I rounded up by 6:50pm 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 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, utilising 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 that the facts and information will ultimately demonstrate the integrity of my actions.”
“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 honored the invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on March 6, 2025, pic.twitter.com/ZDXxDTbnxu
— Uju Kennedy Ohanenye (@BarrUjuKennedy) March 7, 2025
Ohanenye’s problem started shortly before her removal from office, as she faced mounting scrutiny over alleged financial misconduct.
Her confrontation with National Assembly members further fuelled tensions. During a heated session, Ohanenye clashed with lawmakers over the handling of ministry funds, vehemently defending her actions while accusing legislators of unfairly targeting her.
Reports indicate that she resisted attempts to justify certain expenditures, leading to a strained relationship with the legislative body.
Her removal was part of a broader cabinet shake-up aimed at addressing inefficiencies and ethical concerns within the administration.
