Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, has taken legal action against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, a member of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs.
The move comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged embezzlement within the ministry.
The Ministry of Women Affairs, through a statement by Musa Abdulrahaman, the minister’s aide, confirmed the development.
The statement refuted allegations of financial misconduct and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Earlier this week, the House of Representatives, led by Ogbara, questioned Ohanenye regarding the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the release of funds.
The lawmakers also scrutinized the Minister for various expenditures, including N45 million for a New Year party, N20 million for sanitary pads, and N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.
In response to the allegations, the ministry clarified that “all financial transactions undergo rigorous authorization procedures in accordance with established civil service regulations.”
It said further that the procedures involve scrutiny by the Director of Finance and Accounts, with final approval by the Permanent Secretary, the Ministry’s accounting officer.
It added that the Minister presented supporting documents to substantiate the accuracy of all financial transactions under scrutiny.
Also, the ministry said Ohanenye has chosen to refrain from further public commentary on the matter, instead opting to initiate legal proceedings against Ogbara for alleged libel and defamation.
“The Minister expressed confidence in the judicial process and urged the presentation of any evidence or proof of alleged misappropriation in a court of law,” the statement concluded.
