Reps Query Minister Over N20 Million Spent On Sanitary Pads, N65m On New Year Party
The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye has drawn the ire of the House of Representatives following the unguarded manner she allegedly spent monies which included expenditures of N45 million for a New Year party and, N20 million for sanitary pads.
The House of Representatives which has now queried the minister, also frowned on her other unrelated expenditure which includes N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.
Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, led the interrogation of the Minister, over the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the fund release in Abuja.
She said that the investigative hearing was aimed at uncovering the truth and not witch-hunting the Minister and the officials of the ministry.
The committee also investigated the alleged diversion of funds meant for contractor payments, following a petition from contractors.
The committee also sought clarification on funds appropriated for the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.
The minister however denied the allegations of misappropriation, overspending, and non-payment to contractors.
The procurement officer confirmed contractors’ claims, and the Director of Finance and Administration acknowledged only paying approved contracts.
It would be recalled that the committee had at its last sitting summoned the minister to appear before it to explain the rationale behind the non-payment.
The committee also ordered the stoppage of all 2024 contract processes by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs until the whereabouts of the money for the said contracts are determined.
