Former Minister of Women Affairs Uju-Kennedy Ohanenye has declared her unwavering commitment to public service and social justice, despite her recent dismissal from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. Speaking during a candid interview with Channels TV on Wednesday, Ohanenye emphasized that while she may have lost her official position, her dedication to advocacy and public service remains resolute.
“I was sacked, but my visions remain; my visions were not sacked,” Ohanenye stated firmly, highlighting the distinction between her ministerial role and her broader mission to serve the public. Her direct acknowledgment of the dismissal, coupled with her determined response, reveals a steadfast commitment to her principles beyond the confines of government office.
The former minister’s revelation that she continues to provide legal representation for underprivileged citizens demonstrates her ongoing dedication to social justice. I still go to court to defend the people that can’t defend themselves, that don’t have money to get a lawyer,” she explained, underlining her commitment to ensuring access to legal support for vulnerable members of society.
Particularly noteworthy is Ohanenye’s decision to maintain her involvement in sensitive cases that began during her ministerial tenure. This continuation of her work suggests a level of personal investment that transcends official responsibilities, as she explained, “I am still handling all the cases I had before I left, and they are quite sensitive cases, so I couldn’t just abandon them.
Her approach to post-ministerial life reflects a broader understanding of public service that extends beyond formal government positions. By continuing her advocacy work and legal support for disadvantaged citizens, Ohanenye demonstrates that the commitment to public service can persist independently of official titles or positions.
The former minister’s stance raises important questions about the relationship between public service and political appointment. Her experience suggests that while political positions may be temporary, the underlying commitment to social change and public welfare can continue unabated, regardless of official status.
Ohanenye’s response to her dismissal also provides an interesting perspective on resilience in public service. Rather than retreating from public life following her removal from office, she has chosen to maintain and even expand her engagement with the causes she championed as minister, demonstrating that impact can be achieved through various channels.
The continuation of her work, particularly in handling sensitive cases, speaks to the complexity of public service roles and the relationships and responsibilities that extend beyond official appointments. Her decision to see these cases through to completion reflects a sense of duty that transcends political circumstances.
The former minister’s experience also highlights the potential for former government officials to continue making meaningful contributions to society outside of formal government structures. Her ongoing legal advocacy work demonstrates how skills and commitments developed in public office can be redirected toward other forms of public service.
Ohanenye’s situation offers valuable insights into the nature of public service and political appointment in Nigeria’s contemporary landscape. Her response to dismissal suggests that the impact of public servants need not be limited to their time in office, and that commitment to public welfare can find expression through various channels.
The broader implications of Ohanenye’s stance extend beyond her personal circumstances to touch on questions of continuity in public service and the relationship between political appointment and social advocacy. Her experience suggests that the end of a political appointment need not signal the end of public service or social impact.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its political and social challenges, Ohanenye’s example may offer valuable lessons about resilience, commitment, and the various ways in which individuals can contribute to public welfare, both within and outside of formal government structures.
