The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, over allegations of misusing public funds. She reportedly spent her first night in the EFCC facility on Thursday.
According to reports, Ohanenye is being investigated for misappropriating N138,413,253.89. The funds were allegedly mishandled during the disbursement of the 2023 budget for the Women Affairs Ministry. Investigators believe there were violations of procurement processes and diversion of funds meant for government projects.
A source within the EFCC revealed that Ohanenye arrived at the agency’s headquarters around 11 a.m. on Thursday. She was questioned about her role in the alleged fraud, particularly regarding funds meant for the P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative, which were reportedly diverted.
Attempts to get a statement from EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
Uju Kennedy Ohanenye was one of five ministers removed from office in October 2024 after the 19th Federal Executive Council meeting. Following her dismissal, President Bola Tinubu appointed Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim as the new Minister of Women Affairs.
The EFCC is still investigating the case, and further details may emerge as the probe continues. If found guilty, Ohanenye could face legal action for corruption and financial misconduct.
