A heated argument erupted between the House of Representatives Committee on Women’s Affairs and Social Development and the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, on Tuesday, over the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors for completed projects.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, was investigating allegations of fund diversion intended for contractor payments following a petition from contractors who claimed they had not been paid for their work with the ministry.
The session saw the committee members pressing the minister for answers regarding the allocation and use of funds.
During the tense session, the committee demanded explanations on several fronts, including funds allocated to the African First Ladies Peace Mission, the issuance of award letters for contracts, the expected quantities of work, evidence of payments, and project completion certificates.
Minister Kennedy-Ohaneye struggled to provide satisfactory responses, leading to heightened frustrations and tensions within the committee.
In addition to the controversy over unpaid contractors, the minister faced scrutiny over her ministry’s spending habits. She was accused of spending N45 million on a New Year’s children’s party, N20 million on baby products for the annual welcoming of New Year babies, and N1.5 million on fuel for travel from Abuja to Anambra.
As the session grew increasingly contentious, Hon. Ogbara decided to adjourn the meeting until further notice, signaling that the committee would continue to seek clarity and accountability on these financial issues.
This clash underscores the ongoing challenges and scrutiny faced by government officials regarding the management and transparency of public funds. The unresolved questions and the committee’s insistence on accountability suggest that this issue will remain a focal point in the coming weeks.
