The former Minister for Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, who was removed from office during President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle in October 2024, has addressed the public following her interrogation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday.
The former minister is under investigation for allegedly diverting ₦138 million during her tenure.
In a statement released on Friday, Kennedy-Ohanenye provided an update on her visit to the EFCC headquarters, stating that she fully cooperated with the inquiry by offering detailed clarifications regarding her actions and expenditures in office.
She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability for all government officials, commending the EFCC for their professionalism and hospitality throughout the process.
Kennedy-Ohanenye also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their support during her time in office, reaffirming her commitment to upholding integrity in public service.
She said “As a former public servant, I acknowledge that inquiries regarding past official activities are a standard part of ensuring accountability. In this spirit, I willingly honoured the invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on March 6, 2025.
“Concerning allegations of a 138 million Naira diversion. I arrived at the EFCC headquarters at 2:15 PM, and the substantive discussions commenced at 2:50 PM. During this time, I provided comprehensive clarifications regarding my actions and expenditures throughout my tenure as the Minister of Women Affairs.
“I rounded up by 6:50 pm and left thereafter I commend the EFCC for their professionalism and hospitality, and I appreciate the opportunity to address the matters that have recently been circulating in the media.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the privilege of serving my country and positively impacting the lives of many.
“I also express my appreciation to First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her steadfast support of myself and Nigerian women. I remain fully committed to cooperating with the EFCC and will be available for any further inquiries.
“It is the duty of every government official to be transparent and accountable for their time in office.
“During my tenure, my team and I executed our duties diligently, utilizing available resources effectively, and even supplementing with personal funds, demonstrating our dedication to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerian women and children.
“I assure that the facts and information will ultimately demonstrate the integrity of my actions.”