Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, spent her first night in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday, following her arrest and interrogation over allegations of misappropriation, procurement violations, and diversion of public funds amounting to N138,413,253.89. The funds in question were reportedly part of the 2023 budget allocation for the Ministry of Women Affairs.
Ohanenye, who was among five ministers relieved of their duties in October 2024, is accused of diverting funds intended for the P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative, a program designed to support women across Nigeria.
Details of the Allegations
According to a top source within the EFCC, Ohanenye arrived at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja around 11 a.m. on Thursday and was immediately subjected to intense questioning by operatives. The investigation focuses on her alleged role in the misappropriation and diversion of public funds, as well as violations of procurement processes during her tenure as Minister of Women Affairs.
The source revealed, “Investigators are questioning former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, over her alleged role in the misappropriation, violation of procurement processes, and diversion of public funds totaling N138,413,253.89. She arrived at the commission’s headquarters around 11 a.m. on Thursday and is currently facing interrogators over her alleged involvement in the fraud.”
The EFCC’s investigation reportedly uncovered that funds donated for the P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative were diverted for other purposes, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability in the ministry’s operations.
Background of the Case
Uju Kennedy Ohanenye served as the Minister of Women Affairs under President Bola Tinubu’s administration until her removal in October 2024. Her dismissal came after the 19th Federal Executive Council meeting, which saw a reshuffle of the cabinet. She was replaced by Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, the former Minister of State for Police Affairs.
The allegations against Ohanenye have cast a shadow over her tenure, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over the misuse of funds meant to empower women and address gender-based issues. The P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative, which was launched to provide financial support, healthcare, and skills acquisition programs for women, was a flagship project of the ministry.
EFCC’s Investigation and Next Steps
The EFCC’s investigation into Ohanenye’s alleged involvement in the fraud is ongoing, with operatives working to gather evidence and establish a clear link between the former minister and the diverted funds. The commission has not yet issued an official statement on the matter, as efforts to reach the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
If found guilty, Ohanenye could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and the forfeiture of assets acquired through the alleged fraud. The case has also raised questions about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms within government ministries and the need for stricter enforcement of procurement laws.
Public Reactions
The news of Ohanenye’s detention has sparked widespread reactions from Nigerians, with many calling for accountability and justice. Social media platforms have been flooded with comments condemning the alleged misappropriation of funds meant for vulnerable women.
Human rights organizations and gender advocacy groups have also weighed in, urging the government to ensure that the investigation is thorough and transparent. They emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions, particularly when it involves funds allocated for social development programs.
Implications for the Ministry of Women Affairs
The allegations against Ohanenye have raised concerns about the impact on the Ministry of Women Affairs and its ability to carry out its mandate. The diversion of funds intended for women’s empowerment programs could undermine public trust in the ministry and hinder its efforts to address critical issues such as gender inequality, domestic violence, and economic empowerment.
The appointment of Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim as the new Minister of Women Affairs presents an opportunity to restore confidence in the ministry and ensure that funds are used for their intended purposes. Suleiman-Ibrahim, who previously served as Minister of State for Police Affairs, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and renewed commitment to the ministry’s goals.
Conclusion
The detention of former Minister Uju Kennedy Ohanenye by the EFCC marks a significant development in the fight against corruption in Nigeria. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for the EFCC to ensure that due process is followed and that justice is served.
The case also highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms within government ministries to prevent the misuse of public funds. For the Ministry of Women Affairs, the focus must now be on rebuilding trust and ensuring that programs designed to empower women are implemented effectively and transparently.
