A heated confrontation occurred between the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, and members of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs during a probe into the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion intended for contractor payments.
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The probe, chaired by Kafilat Ogbara, was initiated after contractors submitted a petition claiming they had not been paid for completed projects.
The committee sought explanations for the alleged diversion and scrutinized various expenditures, including funds allocated to the African First Ladies Mission project and N45 million spent on a New Year party for children.
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During the session, tensions escalated, resulting in a deadlock as both sides engaged in intense arguments.
Chairperson Ogbara emphasized that the investigation aimed to ensure accountability and proper use of funds, stating, “we must work together to identify and address any instances of misappropriation, non-execution of contracts, or breaches of the Procurement Act.”
Minister Kennedy-Ohaneye defended her ministry, attributing the issue to a lack of funds. She stated, “Even the contracts awarded during my tenure have not been paid. We are underfunded and do not have the necessary funds.”
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The confrontation intensified as committee members pressed the minister for answers.
The session was ultimately adjourned indefinitely by Ogbara, who declared, “I cannot allow the honourable minister to insult any member of this committee. We are adjourning sine die, and I hope that when we reconvene, the minister and her team will conduct themselves appropriately.”
