Reps probe alleged diversion of N1.5 billion, summon minister

The House of Representatives has opened an investigation into a N1.5 billion reportedly meant for paying contractors but allegedly misappropriated by senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

The House Committee on Women Affairs, commenced the investigation in response to requests from contractors regarding unpaid contracts.

The Committee’s Chairman, Hon Kafilat Ogbara, stated that the ministry new contracts that were not included in the 2023 budget and that N1.5 billion that was meant for previous contractors was instead diverted.

According to her, the ministry issued new contracts in 15 states of the federation while still in debt to contractors, a move she claimed was not covered by the 2023 appropriation.

She stated that the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission is currently investigating the ministry for other related offences related to the N1.5 billion overhead release in November and December of 2023.

According to Ogbara, the petitioners also claimed that the ministry bought seven tricycles for an Abuja military barrack.

She said that the ministry and America University of Nigeria, Yola inked a Memorandum of Understanding to cover the school expenses of Chibok girls for a period of seven years.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation disclosed that the aforementioned N1.5 billion has been released to the ministry.

The Committee has therefore, summoned the Minister of Women Affairs, Barrister Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye to appear before it on Tuesday, July 9.

The Committee also instructed the ministry to halt any contract negotiations in 2024 until the issue is settled.