Outrage As Reps Probe Women Minister Over N20m Spent On Sanitary Pads, N45m On New Year Party

The House of Representatives has questioned Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, regarding expenditures deemed unrelated.

Specifically, the reps pointed out to N45 million allocated for a New Year party and N20 million for sanitary pads.

Additionally, N1.5 million was reported to have been spent on vehicle fuel.

Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, led the inquiry into the Minister’s actions, particularly focusing on the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the funds being disbursed in Abuja, Vanguard reported.

Ogbara emphasized that the investigative hearing aimed to uncover facts rather than target the Minister or ministry officials for witch-hunting purposes.

The committee also probed allegations of funds diversion intended for contractor payments, prompted by a petition from affected contractors.

Specific scrutiny was directed towards funds allocated for the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the N1.5 billion designated for contractor payments, Nigerian Tribune reported.

However, the women minister refuted allegations.

The allegations bothered on financial mismanagement, excessive spending, and non-payment to contractors.

The committee’s investigation revealed confirmation of the contractors’ claims by the procurement officer, while the Director of Finance and Administration acknowledged only disbursing funds for approved contracts.

Previously, the committee had summoned the Minister to clarify the reasons behind the non-payment during its last session.

Subsequently, the committee mandated the suspension of all 2024 contract processes within the Ministry of Women’s Affairs until the status of the funds is determined.

Outrage As Reps Probe Women Minister Over N20m Spent On Sanitary Pads, N45m On New Year Party.