The House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development has initiated an investigation into the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion in contract fees by principal officers of the Ministry of Women Affairs.
According to House SpokesmanRep. Akin Rotimi Jr. this follows a petition from contractors claiming they were denied payment for completed projects despite fund releases by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.
Led by Chairperson Rep. Kafilat Ogbara (APC, Lagos), the Committee commenced an investigative hearing on Thursday at the National Assembly Complex. The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, has been summoned to appear before the Committee on Tuesday to address the allegations.
Petitioners allege the Ministry denied them mobilization funds and failed to pay for executed contracts, despite issuing Certificates of Completion. The Office of the Accountant General confirmed the release of N1.5 billion for these contracts. Additionally, the Ministry is accused of misusing funds by purchasing seven tricycles for a military barrack in Abuja, raising concerns about resource diversion intended for contract payments.
“Since the minister came on board, no payment has been made; the Permanent Secretary said the Minister ordered him not to pay any contractor,” the petitioners stated.
Rep. Ogbara criticized the Ministry’s decision to award new contracts in 15 states without settling existing debts totaling N1.5 billion. She emphasized that these new contracts were not part of the 2023 Appropriation Act, and the Committee aims to recover any diverted funds.
“Money for contractors has not been paid and money has been diverted, so how do you pay these contractors?” Rep. Ogbara inquired.
The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) is also investigating the Ministry’s alleged mismanagement of N1.5 billion in overhead funds released in late 2023.
Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, clarified that out of the N13.6 billion total budget, only N3.4 billion (25%) has been released, leaving an outstanding balance of N10.2 billion.
Aloy Ifeakandu, the Director of Finance at the Ministry, testified he followed official instructions and all records are available for scrutiny. He noted that he assumed his role in September 2023 and could not be held accountable for prior events.
“The individual contractors have their files; it can be traced. As at the time I took over, there was no balance in the vote,” he stated.
The Committee has ordered a suspension of all contract implementation processes in the 2024 budget until the N1.5 billion diversion allegations are resolved. The Ministry must provide documentation regarding the Special Account for the Chibok Girls and the MoU with the American University of Nigeria, Yola, for the Chibok girls’ scholarship program.
“We want to see the account and documents,” Rep. Ogbara demanded.
The House of Representatives, exercising its constitutional mandate, is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in government operations. Through enhanced legislative oversight, the House aims to ensure the efficient use of taxpayer funds and the effective functioning of government.
