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Summary
Barrister Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, the recently dismissed Minister of Women Affairs, defended her tenure during an appearance on Channels TV. She discussed her approach to handling sensitive cases, her dismissal, and the importance of decisive leadership in Nigeria. Despite her removal, Uju remains hopeful and committed to serving the public in new capacities.
On Dec. 25, 2024, Barrister Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, the former Minister of Women Affairs, appeared on Channels TV’s “Politics Today” to discuss the “State of the Nation and Citizens’ Welfare and Wellbeing.” Uju, who was among the ministers recently relieved of their duties in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle, candidly addressed her tenure, the challenges she faced, and her future outlook.
In a passionate defense of her approach to tackling sensitive issues, the former minister explained why she was often accused of lacking diplomacy. Reflecting on her time in office, she recounted disturbing cases of child abuse and how these cases did not require diplomacy.
Being the Minister of Women Affairs when I was, I was handling sensitive cases. There was a case of a two year old girl raped with clear evidence of semen from the rapist and I wonder how people expect me to be diplomatic about that. I don’t know why people expect me to be diplomatic when things are damaging. Another good example is me finding out that a man who raped a little girl – to the extent that she had to start wearing pampers again – was about to be released. If I had not gone to the court myself to speak to the judge, he would have been released. I cannot just fold my arms and act “diplomatic” in such dangerous cases.
“People asked why I got personally involved and went to police stations myself and such. As a minister, I’m meant to be a servant to the people. I have to listen to them and respond quickly,” she said, adding that her commitment to justice often meant personally involving herself in cases and visiting police stations.
Expressing gratitude to Nigerians for their support following her dismissal, Uju further maintained an optimistic outlook. “The most important thing is that I have been sacked, and I thank Nigerians for the support they gave me. Whenever one door closes, one has to open another one—even if it’s the closed door, just make sure you’re doing something.”
On the philanthropic donations she received for her project aimed at sending street-hawking children aged 5 to 12 back to school, Uju revealed that all funds had been returned. “I wrote to the bank to do a reversal as I got sacked before I could start the project. I didn’t touch a penny because I was supposed to use it in my capacity as a minister,” she clarified.
The former minister who has also returned to court to serve as a barrister and fight abuse also praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, noting his “doggedness” and commitment to making tough decisions. “That is what we need right now: somebody who will stand firm and follow up a procedure that will lead us to a better life,” she concluded.
