Kafilat Ogbara, the committee’s chairperson, summoned the minister to investigate alleged corruption in her ministry.
According to The Cable, the investigation centred on the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.
It was reported that some contractors petitioned the committee, claiming non-payment for executed contracts.
The hearing quickly became a shouting match, with both sides trading accusations.
Committee members questioned the minister about releasing funds from the Accountant-General’s office.
Marie Ebikake, a committee member, accused the minister of sidelining ministry staff and described Kennedy-Ohanenye’s administration as a “one man’s show”.
In a swift response, the minister took exception to the allegations, demanding a withdrawal of the statement.
She said:
The chairperson cautioned the minister against interrupting while a member was speaking. The tense exchange continued, with both sides refusing to back down in the viral video.
See the video here:
Earlier, the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development summoned Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye to appear on Tuesday regarding the ministry’s outstanding debt of N1.5 billion to contractors.
TimesNow.com.ng reported that the committee has mandated that the Ministry of Women’s Affairs halt all 2024 contract processes until the whereabouts of the funds are clarified.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng
