Chaos Erupts Between Minister of Women Affairs and House Committee Over Corruption Allegations.

When Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, and the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development got into a heated argument on Tuesday, mayhem ensued.

The minister was called before the committee to address charges of corruption, particularly the purported misappropriation of N1.5 billion intended for contractor payments. The committee presided over by Kafilat Ogbara, had received a petition from contractors protesting the lack of payment for completed projects.

The discussion quickly descended into an altercation, with both parties trading accusations. "What was budgeted for 2023 from the accountant-general's office, was it released to the account of the Ministry of Women Affairs?" the committee chairperson asked the minister, seeking clarification. "Is it true or false?"

Marie Ebikake, a committee member, also charged the minister with excluding ministry employees. "Fortunately, I attended the last meeting, and one of the reasons we took you on oath was to get the truth from you, and today you have deviated…" Ebikake began before being interrupted by the minister.

Kennedy-Ohanenye responded angrily, saying, “I take exception. I don’t like this allegation. I am no slave to anybody. She should withdraw that statement she said about me. It is not fair here. It is a trap but I am not going to jump into it. I fear nothing… nothing!!”

Ogbara interjected, warning the minister not to disrupt an “honourable member.” Despite attempts to restore order, the exchange continued for several minutes as guests and journalists watched.