The House of Representatives has queried the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, for spending unrelated expenditures, including N45 million for a New Year party and N20 million for sanitary pads.

Others include N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Kafilat Ogbara, led the interrogation of the minister over the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the fund release in Abuja.

Ogbara stated 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 contractors’ payment, following a petition from contractors.

Reps summon minister over diversion of N1.5bn

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 of N45 million for a New Year party and N20 million for sanitary pads, 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, 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 Affairs until the whereabouts of the money for the contracts are determined.

The Star