Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye: Major Controversies in Her 14-Month Tenure as Minister of Women Affairs
Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, a Nigerian lawyer, politician, and film producer, became a prominent figure when she was appointed the Minister of Women Affairs by President Bola Tinubu on August 21, 2023. However, her tenure, marked by several controversies, led to her being one of the major casualties in the president’s first cabinet reshuffle after 14 months in office.
Here’s a look at some of the key controversies that surrounded her short stint:
- Threat to Sue the United Nations over Donor Funds
Barely two months into office, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye threatened legal action against the United Nations (UN) in October 2023 for allegedly mismanaging funds meant for Nigeria. She accused the UN of obtaining funds on the country’s behalf without remitting them but did not specify the amount. Her threat of litigation was criticized as it showed a lack of understanding of international law, especially since the UN enjoys immunity from such lawsuits. - Disruption of Abuja Events
In August 2023, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye disrupted two separate events in Abuja for being organized “without her permission.” In one instance, she involved the Department of State Services (DSS) and had an organizer arrested for allegedly impersonating the ministry. This incident, along with her opposition to workshops and seminars that didn’t involve direct empowerment, drew widespread criticism. - Suing Niger State Speaker Over Marriage Plans
In May 2023, she filed a lawsuit against the Niger State House of Assembly Speaker, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, for planning to marry off 100 orphans in his constituency. The speaker’s move was part of efforts to alleviate the suffering of orphans, but the minister’s legal action sparked outrage. Groups such as Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) accused her of ignorance regarding northern Muslim culture. She eventually withdrew the suit after consultations with traditional leaders. - UNICAL Sexual Harassment Case
Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye faced backlash in September 2023 after a video surfaced showing her comments on a sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar (UNICAL). She seemed to downplay the gravity of the situation and insinuated that the students were being manipulated. Women’s rights activists demanded a public apology, which she later issued, emphasizing her commitment to due process and the rule of law. - Advocating for Child Labour
Perhaps the most controversial of her statements came during the Anambra Investment Summit 2023, where she advocated using school children to produce essentials like toothpicks, sanitary pads, and cotton buds. Her comments were interpreted as promoting child labour, sparking outrage from child rights activists. She was criticized for disregarding children’s rights laws, to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Despite initially being seen as a compensation appointment after stepping down for Tinubu during the 2023 presidential elections, these controversies ultimately overshadowed her time in office, leading to her ousting in October 2024. Her tenure serves as a reminder of the importance of careful, sensitive leadership, especially in a portfolio concerning women and children’s welfare.