There was drama on Tuesday afternoon as guests and journalists witnessed a heated confrontation between the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development and Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs.
The committee, chaired by Kafilat Ogbara, had summoned the minister to address allegations of corruption, specifically, the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments. Contractors had petitioned the committee, claiming non-payment for executed contracts.
The session quickly escalated into a shouting match, with both sides exchanging accusations.
Ogbara pressed the minister for clarity, asking, “What was budgeted for 2023 from the accountant-general’s office, was it released to the account of the ministry of women affairs? Yes or no?”
Marie Ebikake, another committee member, accused the minister of excluding ministry staff. “Fortunately, I attended the last meeting, and one of the reasons why we took you on oath was to get the truth from you, and today you have deviated…” Ebikake said before being interrupted by Kennedy-Ohanenye.
The minister responded heatedly, “I take exception. I don’t like this allegation. I am no slave to anybody. She should withdraw that statement she said about me. It is not fairness here. It is a trap but I am not going to jump into it. I fear nothing… nothing!!”
The committee chairperson, Ogbara, intervened, cautioning the minister against interrupting an “honourable member.” Despite attempts to restore order, the exchange continued for several minutes.
Watch the video by The Cable below:
VIDEO: Women affairs minister and reps engage in a heated debate over alleged corruption pic.twitter.com/Y8bfnvzqvJ
— TheCable (@thecableng) July 10, 2024
