Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye and the House of Representatives
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As the House of Representatives deepens investigation over N1.5 billion fraud allegations, the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye on Tuesday engaged in shouting match during the committee hearing.
Trouble started when the committee headed by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara invested the Minister of Women Affairs to defend allegation of a whopping N1.5 billion she allegedly diverted.
The invitation was precipitated contractors’ petition working for women Affairs Ministry alleging diversion of N1.5 billion earmarked for the payment to them.
The hearing soon turned into a shouting match, with committee members and the minister hurling accusations and counteraccusations.
Ogbara asked, “What was budgeted for 2023 from the Accountant-General’s office, was it released to the account of the Ministry of Women Affairs. Yes or no?”
Marie Ebikake, another member of the committee, accused the minister of sidelining staff of the ministry.
Ebikake said before she was interrupted by the minister, “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.”
Kennedy-Ohanenye said, “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!!”
Kennedy-Ohanenye was also interrupted by the committee chairperson, who cautioned her against jumping in while an “honourable member” was speaking.
The back and forth continued for a while.
