Former minister for women affairs who was sacked by President Bola Tinubu during a cabinet reshuffle in October 2024, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has said she utilised personal funds during her tenure in office.

Kennedy-Ohanenye opened up following her visit to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday.

The former minister is being questioned for an alleged diversion of ₦138 million during her tenure.

In a statement on Friday, Uju-Kennedy who gave an update on her visit to the EFCC, said she cooperated with the inquiry, providing comprehensive clarifications on their actions and expenditures.

She believed that every government official has a duty to be transparent and accountable for their time in office.

Commended EFCC for professionalism and hospitality, she acknowledged the importance of accountability in ensuring transparency in government.

She also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their support during her tenure.

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.”