Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has taken former Minister for Women Affairs Uju Kennedy Ohanenye into custody as investigations deepen into allegations of substantial financial misconduct during her tenure. According to sources familiar with the ongoing probe, Ohanenye faces serious accusations of misappropriating public funds exceeding N138 million that were originally allocated for women-focused initiatives.
The former minister reportedly arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja at approximately 11:00 AM on Thursday, where she has since been undergoing intensive questioning by anti-corruption operatives. The investigation centers on allegations that Ohanenye diverted N138,413,253.89 from the ministry’s 2023 budget for personal enrichment rather than the intended governmental programs.
“Operatives are questioning Uju Kennedy Ohanenye regarding her alleged involvement in the misappropriation and diversion of N138 million from the 2023 Ministry budget,” revealed an EFCC source who spoke on condition of anonymity. The investigations reveal that funds meant for women-focused projects were diverted for personal enrichment, and there were clear breaches of due process in the ministry’s budget disbursement.
The corruption allegations extend beyond simple misappropriation, as Ohanenye is also being investigated for multiple violations of Nigeria’s procurement laws and unauthorized use of public funds. These additional charges suggest a pattern of financial impropriety that may have significantly undermined the ministry’s ability to fulfill its mandate of supporting women’s initiatives across the country.
Financial transparency advocates have long raised concerns about fund management within Nigeria’s ministerial departments, particularly regarding special allocations meant for vulnerable populations. The Women Affairs Ministry, which Ohanenye previously led, oversees critical programs aimed at economic empowerment, gender equality, and support services for women nationwide.
Political analysts note that this case represents another troubling instance of alleged high-level corruption within Nigeria’s governmental structures. The diversion of funds specifically earmarked for women’s development programs is particularly damaging, as these initiatives often target some of the country’s most marginalized populations.
The EFCC, established in 2003, has intensified its efforts to combat corruption within Nigeria’s public service in recent years. The commission has pursued cases against several former ministers and high-ranking officials, demonstrating a commitment to holding public servants accountable regardless of their political connections or former positions.
Financial crime experts emphasize that the N138 million figure may represent only the initial findings of the investigation. As EFCC forensic accountants continue examining ministry records and financial transactions, the full extent of the alleged misconduct may prove to be considerably larger.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s fight against corruption, which has remained a significant obstacle to the country’s development despite numerous anti-corruption initiatives. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, Nigeria continues to score poorly, reflecting persistent issues with public sector transparency and accountability.
Civil society organizations focusing on women’s rights have expressed dismay at the allegations, noting that funds diverted from women-focused projects represent lost opportunities for meaningful interventions in areas such as maternal health, economic empowerment, and gender-based violence prevention.
When funds designated for women’s development are misappropriated, the consequences extend far beyond the monetary value,” explained a representative from a leading women’s advocacy group. These resources could have transformed lives, created sustainable livelihoods, and protected vulnerable women and girls across Nigeria.”
The timing of Ohanenye’s detention comes amid broader efforts to reform Nigeria’s approach to public financial management. Government officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and transparency in ministerial operations, particularly as the country faces economic challenges and seeks to optimize resource allocation.
Legal experts anticipate that if charges are formally filed, Ohanenye could face significant penalties under Nigeria’s anti-corruption laws. The Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act provides for severe consequences for public officers found guilty of misappropriating government funds, including lengthy prison terms and substantial fines.
The EFCC has not yet issued an official statement regarding how long Ohanenye may remain in custody or when formal charges might be filed. However, sources indicate that the commission is treating this case with the utmost seriousness and is determined to conduct a thorough investigation before proceeding with any potential prosecution.
As investigations continue, the case serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of oversight and accountability in public administration. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing safeguards meant to prevent the misuse of funds within Nigeria’s ministerial departments.
Ohanenye has not yet made any public statements regarding the allegations, and it remains unclear whether she has secured legal representation. As of the time of reporting, she remains in EFCC custody while the investigation proceeds.
