A heated confrontation occurred on Tuesday evening between the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development and Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, over allegations of corruption, specifically the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.
The committee, led by Chairperson Kafilat Ogbara, had invited the minister to respond to the allegations following petitions from contractors about non-payment for completed contracts.
The session quickly escalated into a shouting match, with both sides exchanging accusations.
Chairperson Ogbara questioned the minister for clarity, asking, “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?”
Committee member Marie Ebikake also accused the minister of not including ministry staff in her dealings. “Fortunately, I attended the last meeting, and one of the reasons we took you on oath was to get the truth from you, and today you have deviated…” Ebikake said before being interrupted by Kennedy-Ohanenye.
Kennedy-Ohanenye, responding angrily, 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 fair here. It is a trap but I am not going to jump into it. I fear nothing… nothing!!”
Ogbara intervened, cautioning the minister against interrupting an “honourable member.”
Despite attempts to restore order, the exchange continued for several minutes, as guests and journalists looked on.
