Uju Kennedy to EFCC: I used my own funds when I was minister

Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the former minister of women’s affairs who was sacked by President Bola Tinubu in a cabinet

reshuffle in October 2024, has claimed that she used personal money while she was in office.

The former minister is under investigation for allegedly misusing ₦138 million when she was in office.

Kennedy-Ohanenye made this known, after visiting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC)

headquarters on Thursday.

Uju-Kennedy, who provided an update on her visit to the EFCC, said in a statement on Friday that she cooperated with

the investigation by offering thorough explanations of their expenditures and actions.

According to her, it is the responsibility of all public servants to be open and accountable during their tenure.

She recognized the value of accountability in maintaining government transparency and praised the EFCC for their

professionalism and friendliness.

She also thanked Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady, and President Bola Tinubu for their assistance during her

administration.

“As a former public servant, I acknowledge that enquiries 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 enquiries.

“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, utilising 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 you that the facts and information will ultimately demonstrate the integrity of my actions.”