N1bn Offer Conditional on Evidence, Umahi Clarifies Ohiri Claims
The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has addressed the growing controversy surrounding Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, dismissing allegations of any financial negotiation and insisting that due process must be followed to establish the truth.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the Minister clarified that Barrister Marshall Abubakar, who has been linked to the matter, acted purely in good faith and without any personal interest. According to the statement, the lawyer’s involvement was solely aimed at assisting Mrs. Ohiri in resolving the issue amicably.
The Minister firmly denied any discussion or agreement involving financial settlement with Mrs. Ohiri. However, he acknowledged that some concerned individuals independently indicated a willingness to support her, contingent upon the presentation of credible evidence.
Umahi reiterated that he had earlier outlined two clear conditions for resolving the dispute: either the matter should be pursued in court or Mrs. Ohiri should provide verifiable proof, including relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.
The statement further emphasized that Barrister Abubakar maintained a high level of professionalism throughout the process and neither requested nor received any payment from the Minister.
With the alleged failure of Mrs. Ohiri to provide the required evidence, the Minister has now directed his legal team to proceed with court action to allow for a proper judicial determination of the issues.
While noting that he had remained silent for years despite repeated accusations, Umahi explained that his restraint was driven by a desire to stay focused on governance and national service. He, however, said recent developments made it necessary to publicly clarify his position.
The Minister also disclosed that he had been informed that some associates were willing to raise as much as N1 billion for Mrs. Ohiri, but only if she could present complete and verifiable records to support her claims—evidence he said is still being awaited.
Reaffirming his commitment to public service, Umahi assured Nigerians that the controversy would not distract him from delivering critical infrastructure projects across the country.
He also thanked members of the public who have followed the issue closely, noting that there is increasing awareness that not all claims presented in the public space reflect the full reality of events.
