Former Minister of Women Affairs, Uju-Ken Ohanenye, has stated that she has no regrets about her actions while in office, despite the controversies that marked her tenure.
Ohanenye, who was appointed in August 2023 and dismissed by President Bola Tinubu on October 23, alongside four other ministers, defended her performance during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
She said, “I had a responsibility to ensure things were done right, and I wouldn’t have tolerated anyone undermining that. I’m glad I did my job to the best of my ability, and I have no regrets.”
Controversial Tenure
Her tenure was overshadowed by disputes, including a threatened lawsuit against the United Nations for alleged mismanagement of funds earmarked for Nigeria. Despite this, she highlighted her efforts to initiate impactful programs, including mobile courts and rescue operations for young girls engaged in street hawking.
She revealed that she lacked funds for these initiatives as they were not budgeted for. However, Nigerians responded positively to her call for assistance.
“On October 15, many Nigerians gathered at the villa and generously donated over ₦200 million to support vulnerable Nigerians,” she said.
Dismissal and Fund Reversal
Ohanenye disclosed that she was removed from office less than two weeks after the donations were made, leaving her unable to implement the projects. She instructed ministry officials to request a reversal of the funds from the bank.
“Unfortunately, not up to two weeks after the donations, I was sacked. When that happened, there was no way I could use that money. I asked the secretary in charge to write to the bank to do a reversal of the funds,” she explained.
Reflecting on her tenure, Ohanenye maintained that she made a meaningful impact despite the challenges and controversies, affirming her commitment to public service and the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians.