Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye has invited the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development to take legal action against her following accusations of corruption.
She has also dared the lawmakers to present any proof of corruption against her in a court of law, according to a statement by her aide in Abuja.
The minister stated that all payments for contracts and project approvals in her ministry strictly adhere to civil service regulations.
The committee, led by Kafilat Ogbara, had summoned the minister to address allegations of diverting N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.
Contractors had complained to the committee about not being paid for completed projects.
During the hearing, there was a heated exchange between committee members and the minister over these allegations.
Kennedy-Ohanenye provided detailed documents and explanations to refute rumors of financial misconduct.
She emphasized that all financial transactions undergo thorough authorization procedures involving the Ministry’s finance director and the permanent secretary.
The minister has refrained from commenting further on the issue and has filed a lawsuit against Hon. Kafilat Ogbara for defamation.
She encourages due process, urging the committee to present any evidence of misappropriation in court.
Kennedy-Ohanenye affirmed that no funds have been misappropriated under her leadership.
She pledged to continue utilizing resources responsibly for the benefit of Nigerian women and children, ensuring transparency and accountability in every project.