Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has revealed that she was interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriation, procurement violations, and diversion of public funds amounting to N138,413,253.89.
In her defense, Ohanenye stated that she had gone as far as using her personal funds to supplement projects within her ministry, implying that the allegations of misappropriation and financial misconduct were baseless. Despite her claims, the EFCC is continuing its investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and procurement violations during her time in office. The probe remains ongoing as authorities seek to uncover the truth behind the N138 million fraud allegations.
The former minister made the confirmation in a statement she personally issued on her X page on Friday evening.
She said she arrived at the EFCC headquarters at 2:15pm on Thursday and the interrogation commenced at 2:50pm and lasted till 6:50pm.
SpearNews reported yesterday that the former minister was squeezed by the EFCC. The probe centered around 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 ministryโs budget disbursement, with funds intended for the P-BAT Cares for Women Initiative allegedly misappropriated.
In the statement, Ohanenye said, โAs a former public servant, I acknowledge that inquiries regarding past official activities are a standard part of ensuring accountability.
โIn 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.
โI arrived at the EFCC headquarters at 2:15 PM, and the substantive discussions commenced at 2:50 PM.
โDuring 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
โI 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.
โI 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.
โDuring 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.
โI assure that the facts and information will ultimately demonstrate the integrity of my actions.โ
Ohanenyeโs troubles began before her removal from office, as she faced mounting scrutiny over alleged financial misconduct.
Her tenure was marred by controversy, culminating in her removal by President Tinubu in October 2024. Federal lawmakers had also launched an investigation into her ministryโs spending, raising concerns about procurement irregularities and unauthorised financial transactions.
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.
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