From Moshood Karim
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has strongly refuted claims made by Ifaluyi Isibor Ogbeide, a former commissioner under ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki, alleging that the Ministry squandered N75 million on the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations.
In a Facebook post dated 14 March 2025, Ogbeide claimed that the Ministry, under the leadership of Commissioner Barrister Bisi Idaomi, had excessively spent N75 million on the celebrations. He stated: “Meanwhile, they are bleeding the treasury badly. I’m told that the Ministry of Women Affairs spent N75 million only to celebrate Women’s Day, and even APC women no see chewing gum.”
However, the Ministry has categorically denied these claims, asserting that only N15 million was approved and utilised for the event. In an official disclaimer signed by Commissioner, Barrister Bisi Idaomi, Permanent Secretary Mrs J. I. Ihensekhien, other key officials and made available to Uptown Press Nigeria, the Ministry stated that the allegations were false and misleading.
“It has come to the attention of the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development that a false and misleading allegation has been circulated by one Ifaluyi Isibor Ogbeide, claiming that the Ministry expended the sum of Seventy-Five Million Naira (N75,000,000) for the celebration of International Women’s Day 2025,” the statement read.
“The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development unequivocally and categorically refutes this baseless and malicious allegation. The approved and released budget for the activities commemorating International Women’s Day 2025 was Fifteen Million Naira (₦15,000,000). This sum was meticulously and accountably disbursed for the execution of all planned events and programmes.”
The Ministry further affirmed that comprehensive financial documentation was available for scrutiny and verification, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability in all financial dealings.
“We strongly condemn the dissemination of false information intended to tarnish the reputation of the Ministry and undermine its efforts in promoting the welfare and advancement of women,” the statement continued. “We encourage all stakeholders and members of the public to seek accurate information through appropriate channels and refrain from spreading unfounded allegations that undermine the Ministry’s efforts.”
The Ministry reiterated its dedication to the empowerment and development of women in Edo State, urging the public to support its initiatives rather than propagate misinformation. It also assured that all expenditures remain within the confines of due process and responsible financial management.
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