In recent times, instances of alleged financial impropriety involving high-profile women in the Nigerian government have garnered attention.
Traditionally perceived as more trustworthy, women have often been appointed to key financial roles within organizations and government. However, a number of prominent figures have faced accusations of financial misconduct and other improprieties during or after their terms in office.
1. Diezani Alison-Madueke:
Former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has faced allegations of embezzling substantial funds over the past decade. Currently undergoing trial in the UK, the scandal has persisted, marking a prolonged legal battle.
2. Hadiza Bala Usman:
Accused of involvement in a multi-billion dollar scam by the former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, Hadiza Bala Usman, the former Chairman of the Shipping Authority, faced suspension. Denying the allegations, her case drew attention due to its financial magnitude.
3. Sadia Umar-Farouq:
Facing allegations of embezzlement amounting to 37 billion Naira, Sadia Umar-Farouq, confronted accusations from a contractor. Despite denying any association with the said contractor, she is now under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
4. Betta Edu:
Betta Edu, implicated in the diversion of maize subsidy funds and an attempt to channel 583 million from the subsidy to a personal account, has been invited by the EFCC for questioning.
5. Halima Shehu:
Suspended Chairman of the National Social Investment Program (NSIP), Halima Shehu, faced accusations of illegally transferring around 44 billion government funds to various accounts. She claimed to have acted under orders from the Minister, Mercy Betta Edu.
6. Muheeba Dankaka:
Accused of involvement in a scandal related to accepting money from job seekers in the Commission for Equal Share, Muheeba Dankaka initially denied the allegations. However, she later swore before the National Assembly committee that she was not involved in any wrongdoing.
7. Pauline Tallen:
Former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, was accused of misappropriating two billion Naira. After a court ruling banned her from holding government office, she retracted her statement and apologized.
8. Kemi Adeosun:
Kemi Adeosun stepped down as Minister of Finance due to allegations of using a fake national service certificate. Adeosun claimed she was unaware of the document’s authenticity, emphasizing that it was provided to her based on representation.
9. Stella Oduah:
Former Minister of Aviation during the Goodluck Jonathan era, Stella Oduah faced allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of billions. The accusations led to an ongoing exchange between Oduah and the EFCC, ultimately culminating in her becoming a senator during Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency.
10. Patricia Etteh:
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Patricia Etteh, lost her seat amid a financial scandal involving alleged misappropriation of House funds. Accused of financial impropriety, the incident led to her removal from office.
