July 12, (THEWILL) – The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has filed a defamation suit against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development.
The ministry confirmed the development in a statement issued through Musa Abdulrahaman, the Minister’s aide.
The move comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged diversion of funds in the ministry.
THEWILL had on Wednesday, reported that the House of Representatives quizzed Kennedy-Ohaneye over the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the fund release in Abuja.
The lawmakers, led by Ogbara, queried the Minister for spending unrelated expenditures which include N45 million for a New Year party, N20 million for sanitary pads and N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.
But in the statement on Thursday, the ministry said, “All financial transactions undergo rigorous authorisation procedures in accordance with established civil service regulations.
“These procedures involve scrutiny by the Director of Finance and Accounts, culminating in final approval by the Permanent Secretary, the Ministry’s accounting officer. Supporting documents were presented by the Minister to substantiate the accuracy of all financial transactions under scrutiny.
“In response to the allegations, Barr. Ohanenye has chosen to refrain from further public commentary on the matter. Instead, she has initiated legal proceedings against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara for alleged libel and defamation, filing a lawsuit under Suit No. E 500/2024.
“The Minister expressed confidence in the judicial process and urged the presentation of any evidence or proof of alleged misappropriation in a court of law.”
