The House of Representatives has queried the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, for unrelated expenditures, including N45 million for a New Year party and N20 million for sanitary pads, including N1.5 million for vehicle fuel.

Kafilat Ogbara, chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, led the minister’s interrogation over the non-payment of N1.5 billion to contractors despite the release of funds.

She said that the investigative hearing was aimed at uncovering the truth and not witch-hunting the minister and the officials of the ministry.

The committee also investigated the alleged diversion of funds meant for contractor’s payments following a petition from contractors.

The committee also sought clarification on funds appropriated for the African First Lady’s mission and the whereabouts of the N1.5 billion meant for contractor payments.

The minister, however, denied the allegations of misappropriation, overspending, and non-payment to contractors.

The procurement officer confirmed contractors’ claims, and the director of finance and administration acknowledged only paying approved contracts.

The committee had summoned the minister to appear before it at its last sitting to explain the rationale behind the non-payment.

The committee also ordered the stoppage of all 2024 contract processes by the women’s affairs ministry until the money’s whereabouts are determined.

(NAN)