The House of Representatives has raised concerns over unrelated expenditures by the Ministry of Women Affairs, led by Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye.
The expenditures include N45 million for a New Year party, N20 million for sanitary pads, and N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.
Kafilat Ogbara, chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, led the interrogation, focusing on the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the release of funds.
Ogbara stated that the investigative hearing aimed to uncover the truth and was not intended as a witch-hunt against the minister and ministry officials.
The committee’s investigation followed a petition from contractors alleging the diversion of funds meant for their payments.
During the hearing, the committee also sought clarification on funds appropriated for the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the N1.5 billion intended for contractor payments.
Kennedy-Ohaneye denied allegations of misappropriation, overspending, and non-payment to contractors.
However, the ministry’s procurement officer confirmed the contractors’ claims, and the director of finance and administration acknowledged that only approved contracts had been paid.
The committee had previously summoned the minister to explain the rationale behind the non-payment.
Following the revelations, the committee ordered the ministry to halt all 2024 contract processes until the whereabouts of the missing funds are determined.
