Umahi breaks silence on Ohiri dispute, insists on court resolution
Honourable Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding claims made by Mrs Tracy Ohiri, stating that the matter will now be resolved through legal processes unless
Honourable Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding claims made by Mrs Tracy Ohiri, stating that the matter will now be resolved through legal processes unless credible evidence is presented.
The minister stated this in a statement signed by his Media Aide, Francis Nwaze yesterday.
He was responding to growing public discourse involving Mrs Ohiri and her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar.
The statement emphasised the need to clarify what it described as misconceptions and conflicting narratives.
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According to the minister, Abubakar acted in good faith throughout his involvement in the matter, motivated by a desire to assist Mrs Ohiri in reaching an amicable resolution.
The statement stressed that the lawyer neither requested nor received any financial compensation from the minister.
The minister further clarified that no discussions were held regarding any payment to Mrs Ohiri.
However, it acknowledged that some individuals, described as associates and well-wishers, had independently expressed willingness to support her financially.
Umahi reiterated that he had set two clear conditions for resolving the dispute: that the matter be settled in court or that Mrs Ohiri provide verifiable evidence, including communications and records to substantiate her claims.
He noted that these conditions had not been met, particularly citing the absence of credible documentation.
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As a result, the minister has directed his legal team to proceed with court action to establish the facts.
He also disclosed that he had earlier informed Abubakar that a group of associates would be willing to raise up to ₦1 billion if Mrs. Ohiri could provide comprehensive evidence supporting her allegations.
According to the statement, the minister is still awaiting such documentation.
The statement highlighted that Umahi had previously refrained from responding publicly to the allegations despite what it described as repeated provocations.
This was due to his focus on public service and infrastructure development, adding however, that recent developments prompted the decision to respond.
The minister also expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have followed the issue closely and sought to understand the facts.
Reaffirming his commitment to his duties, Umahi stated that the controversy would not distract him from ongoing efforts to deliver road infrastructure projects across the country.
He emphasised a continued focus on service delivery, economic growth, and national development.
