Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, the Minister of Women Affairs in Nigeria, has issued a threat of legal action against the United Nations (UN), accusing it of mismanaging funds meant for Nigeria. Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Kennedy-Ohaneye alleged that the UN obtained funds on behalf of the country without proper remittance.
The minister emphasized the need for accountability, demanding that the UN provide her ministry with the necessary financial records by November 15. Kennedy-Ohaneye stated that if the UN fails to furnish the records within the specified timeframe, legal action will be initiated.
During the press conference, she asserted, “I stand here as the Minister of Women Affairs to demand from the UN, the account of all the monies they sourced from donors in Nigeria’s name. We want to see the account of what they did.” The minister also urged the UN to apologize to Nigerians if they do not provide the necessary information.
Kennedy-Ohaneye outlined the timeline for the UN to respond, stating, “From 16th of October to November 15, if we don’t get those reports for Nigerians to see, we are heading to court. [They have] from 16th October to November 8.” She emphasized that a pre-action letter would be sent, and if the information is not provided, legal proceedings will commence, promising that Nigerians will be informed of the lawsuit number by November 15.
The minister did not disclose the specific amount of funds the UN allegedly took on behalf of Nigeria or the intended purpose of the funds. The threat of legal action underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of funds designated for Nigeria.
