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Reps probe alleged diversion of contractors’ N1.5bn in Ministry of Women Affairs
The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion meant for the payment of contractors by principal officers of ministry of women affairs.
The House Committee on Women Affairs commenced the probe in Abuja following petitions by contractors over non-payment of contracts executed.
The Chairman of the committee, Kafilat Ogbara, said the ministry initiated new contracts not captured in the 2023 budget and diverted N1.5 billion being funds for old contractors.
She added that the ministry despite owing contractors awarded fresh contracts in 15 states that were not captured in the 2023 budget.
The lawmaker revealed that there was ongoing probe of the ministry by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) on overhead release of N1.5 billion for November/December 2023.
READ ALSO: Reps probe CBN’s N1.12tr anchor borrowers programme
She said the petitioners also alleged that the ministry purchased seven tricycles for a military Barrack in Abuja.
Ogbara also revealed that the ministry signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the America University of Nigeria, Yola for the payment of Chibok girls’ school fees for seven years.
The committee in its resolutin summoned the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, to appear on July 9.
The committee also ordered the ministry to stop all contract process for 2024 until the matter is resolved.
It equally demanded the special account for the Chibok girls and the MoU.
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