The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has turned its spotlight on former Minister for Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, over allegations of financial mismanagement. On Thursday, EFCC operatives interrogated the sacked minister regarding her alleged involvement in fund misappropriation, procurement violations, and the diversion of public funds totalling ₦138,413,253.89.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
According to investigators, Ohanenye allegedly diverted funds meant for the P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative, a program designed to empower Nigerian women for personal gain. The funds in question were part of the 2023 budget allocation for the Ministry of Women Affairs, raising serious concerns about financial accountability under her leadership.
EFCC Interrogation: A Minister Under Fire
Ohanenye arrived at the EFCC headquarters around 11:00 AM on Thursday to face questioning over her alleged role in the financial scandal. As of now, investigations are still ongoing, and she has not been granted administrative bail.
Not Her First Controversy
The current allegation of fraud against Ohanenye is not the first time the former minister has been accused of fraud. In July 2024, while she was still a minister under President Tinubu, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara accused her of misappropriation of ministerial funds, allegations which she fiercely denied. She even went as far as filing a defamation lawsuit against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, insisting that her record was clean and transparent.
Tinubu’s Cabinet Shake-Up: A Sudden Exit
Her troubles escalated when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu dismissed her in October 2024 as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle. While no official reason was given at the time, speculation swirled that the allegations of corruption may have played a role in her removal. Despite this, Ohanenye publicly thanked Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and pledged to continue advocating for Nigerian women.
Still Fighting for Justice?
Interestingly, despite her dismissal and legal troubles, Ohanenye has remained vocal in the public sphere. In November 2024, she appeared in court to advocate for a four-year-old child allegedly assaulted by a teacher, a move seen by some as an attempt to rebuild her public image.
What’s Next?
With the EFCC digging deeper into her tenure, all eyes are on Ohanenye as Nigerians await the outcome of the investigation. Will she be cleared of wrongdoing, or will this case become yet another high-profile political scandal?
