The former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has been interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), over allegations of misappropriation, procurement violations, and the diversion of public funds amounting to ₦138, 413, 253.89.
It was learnt that Ohanenye arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, on Thursday morning, where she was questioned over alleged fraudulent financial activities during her tenure as minister.
The probe reportedly centers on funds allocated in the 2023 budget, for the Ministry of Women Affairs, particularly those meant for the P-BAT Cares for Women Initiative, which were allegedly diverted for personal use.
Investigators have uncovered multiple breaches of due process in the ministry’s budget disbursement.
Ohanenye had faced scrutiny over financial misconduct even before her removal from office.
The National Assembly had launched an inquiry into her ministry’s financial dealings, raising concerns about procurement irregularities and unauthorized transactions.
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During her tenure, she had a contentious relationship with the National Assembly. A heated session with lawmakers saw her defending her handling of ministry funds, while accusing legislators of unfairly targeting her.
Reports indicate that she resisted attempts to justify certain expenditures, further straining her ties with the legislative body.
Her dismissal by President Bola Tinubu in October 2024, was part of a broader cabinet shake-up, aimed at addressing inefficiencies, and ethical concerns within the administration.
The EFCC has not yet issued an official statement regarding the investigation, but sources say questioning is ongoing as authorities seek to uncover the full extent of financial mismanagement in the Ministry of Women Affairs.
