The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the spending practices of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, led by Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye. The probe centers around allegations of unrelated expenditures and delays in payments to contractors.

One of the primary concerns raised by the House Committee on Women’s Affairs, chaired by Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, is the allocation of funds for seemingly unrelated purposes. This includes a N45 million expense for a New Year’s party, raising questions about the appropriateness of such spending.

The committee is also looking into reports of N1.5 billion allocated to contractors remaining unpaid despite being released by the government. This allegation stems from a petition submitted by disgruntled contractors who haven’t received payment for their completed work.

Rep. Ogbara emphasized that the investigation is intended to uncover the truth and ensure proper financial management within the Ministry. She stressed that it’s not a witch hunt against the Minister or any ministry personnel.

Beyond the missing contractor payments, the committee is delving deeper. They are seeking clarification on funds allocated to the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the aforementioned N1.5 billion.

Minister Kennedy-Ohanenye has vehemently denied all allegations of misappropriation, overspending, and non-payment to contractors. However, the committee’s investigation gained momentum when the Ministry’s procurement officer confirmed the contractors’ claims. Additionally, the Director of Finance and Administration acknowledged only paying for approved contracts, adding another layer of complexity to the matter.

This is not the first time the committee has scrutinized the Ministry’s practices. In a previous session, they summoned the Minister to explain the rationale behind the delayed contractor payments.

The investigation has taken a significant step further. The committee has ordered the Ministry to halt all 2024 contract processes until the issue of the missing N1.5 billion and the justification for certain expenditures are addressed.

This move underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the House’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs.