David Umahi, minister of works, has responded to allegations made against him by businesswoman Tracy Ohiri, insisting she must present verifiable evidence or face legal action.
Ohiri had earlier alleged in a video that human rights lawyer Marshall Abubakar pressured her into withdrawing claims that Umahi owed her N250 million, promising that the minister would pay the sum. She later said the payment never materialised.
In a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, Umahi defended Abubakar, describing his role as selfless and carried out in good faith.
He said: “At no time did Barr. Marshall discusses or negotiates payment of any money to Mrs Ohiri. However, some associates and well-meaning individuals approached him independently to help her.
“It must also be emphasised that Barr. Marshall Abubakar conducted himself with utmost decency and integrity throughout. He neither requested nor received any money from the Honourable Minister at any point.”
Umahi stated that he had earlier set two conditions for resolving the dispute: either the matter be settled in court or Ohiri should provide verifiable evidence, including communications supporting her claims.
He noted that since she had failed to do so, he has directed his legal team to proceed with court action.
“The Minister has directed his legal team to proceed with all court processes to ensure that the truth is fully established. The Minister further acknowledged that he had indicated to Barr. Marshall, if Mrs Ohiri could provide complete evidence, logs and communications from the period in question, some friends and associates were willing to contribute the sum of One Billion Naira (N1b).
“The Minister is still waiting for the above. It is also worth noting that for several years, the Minister chose to remain silent despite persistent provocations and public attacks. This restraint was deliberate and guided by a commitment to focus on state and national service rather than distractions. However, recent developments have made it necessary to respond.”
The minister also expressed appreciation to Nigerians who examined the issue critically, reiterating his commitment to his duties and ongoing infrastructure projects.
“There is growing awareness that not everyone who presents themselves as a victim truly is one, and that, in some cases, narratives are deliberately inverted. The focus remains on results, service, and ensuring that Nigerians continue to benefit from projects that improve connectivity, economic growth, and national development.
“We assure Nigerians that this administration will continue to pursue its transformation agenda with dedication, transparency, and an unwavering sense of responsibility,” he said.
Background
Ohiri had accused Umahi of owing her N250 million for promotional and printing services rendered during his 2015 governorship campaign in Ebonyi State. She also alleged that the minister made advances toward her, which she rejected, leading to further disputes and police involvement.
She was later arrested in Lagos over alleged cyberbullying linked to the case and transferred to Abuja, where she was detained before being arraigned on a defamation charge and granted bail.
The case gained wider attention after activist Omoyele Sowore confronted Umahi at the police headquarters, criticising what he described as the criminalisation of a civil dispute.
Amid the controversy, Ohiri later released a video retracting her allegations and apologising to the minister and his family, stating that her decision followed consultations with her family, friends, and legal advisers.
