Diversion Of N1.5bn: Reps summon Women Affairs Minister Kennedy-Ohaneye (Details)

Diversion Of N1.5bn: Reps summon Women Affairs Minister Kennedy-Ohaneye (Details)

The House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into the alleged diversion of N1.57 billion meant for the payment of contractors by principal officers of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

On Friday, the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs ordered Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, the Minister of Women Affairs, to halt all contract processes for 2024 until the outcome of the probe is determined.

Kennedy-Ohaneye has been summoned to appear before the committee on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, to provide further insights into the investigation.

This decision by the committee followed a petition received from contractors regarding non-payment for executed contracts.

During the investigative hearing, Aloy Ifeakandu, the Director of Finance in the ministry, stated that he had only complied with official directives from his superiors.

Kafilat Ogbara, the committee’s chairman, revealed that the ministry had initiated new contracts not included in the 2023 budget and diverted N1.5 billion meant for previous contractors.

“While owing contractors, the ministry went further to award a new contract in 15 states that were not also captured in the 2023 appropriation. Money for contractors has been diverted, so how do you pay these contractors?” Ogbara queried.

The probe aims to address these financial discrepancies and ensure accountability within the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.