Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has spoken out about her recent visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where she was questioned over alleged financial misappropriation during her tenure.
In a statement shared on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kennedy-Ohanenye revealed that she voluntarily honored an invitation from the EFCC on March 6, 2025. She arrived at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja at 2:15 PM, began discussions at 2:50 PM, and concluded at 6:50 PM.
The investigation centers around allegations that ₦138,413,253.89 from the 2023 budget of the Ministry of Women Affairs was misappropriated, with claims that funds meant for initiatives like the P-BAT Cares for Women Initiative were diverted for personal use.
Kennedy-Ohanenye, however, denied any wrongdoing, insisting that she and her team judiciously utilized the available funds to benefit Nigerian women and children.
“As a leader with integrity, I make bold to state that I have always upheld transparency and accountability in the course of my duty,” she said.
She further explained that the financial resources allocated to the ministry were insufficient for the programs she implemented, so she personally contributed funds to support the Renewed Hope Agenda for women and children.
“To ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President for Nigerian women and children was well executed, I used my personal resources to supplement the limited funds available to the ministry,” she stated.
The former minister also commended the EFCC for their professionalism and hospitality during her visit, emphasizing that she was treated with respect throughout the process.
“I must commend the EFCC for the high level of professionalism and hospitality they exhibited during my visit,” she added.
She reassured Nigerians of her willingness to cooperate fully with any further inquiries and maintained that she had nothing to hide.
“I remain committed to the values of honesty and accountability and will continue to cooperate with all necessary authorities to ensure that the truth prevails,” she said.
As of now, the EFCC has not issued an official statement regarding the outcome of the investigation, and it remains unclear whether Kennedy-Ohanenye has been cleared of the allegations. Nigerians are awaiting further updates on the matter.
