The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has instructed his legal team to initiate full court proceedings against businesswoman Tracy Ohiri following her renewed accusations that he owes her N280 million for campaign materials supplied during his time as a party chairman.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaz, Umahi described Ohiri's persistent claims, including earlier allegations of sexual harassment, as unfounded and damaging. The controversy gained traction after Ohiri posted viral videos on social media accusing the minister of indebtedness and misconduct.
Ohiri was previously arrested by security agencies and prosecuted over the matter. Following intervention by her lawyer, Barrister Marshall Abubakar, she deleted the posts, withdrew the allegations, and issued a public apology that also went viral.
However, days later, Ohiri resumed her claims against Umahi.
The minister's statement clarified that during Abubakar's earlier efforts to resolve the issue amicably, Umahi had outlined two conditions: either settle the dispute in court or provide verifiable evidence, including complete logs, communications, and documentation from the relevant period. Umahi noted that he had indicated to the lawyer that, upon presentation of credible proof, some friends and associates were willing to contribute up to N1 billion to settle the matter, but Ohiri has failed to produce any such evidence.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Barr. Marshall Abubakar acted in good faith and was motivated solely by a desire to assist Mrs. Ohiri. His involvement was entirely selfless... At no time did Barr. Marshall discuss or negotiate payment of any money to Mrs. Ohiri,” the statement read.
It further emphasized that Abubakar “conducted himself with utmost decency and integrity” and neither requested nor received any funds from the minister.
Umahi reiterated his long-standing restraint despite years of provocations, attributing his initial silence to a focus on national service. With recent developments, however, he deemed a formal response necessary to establish the truth.
“The Honourable Minister has directed his legal team to proceed with all court processes to ensure that the truth is fully established,” the statement declared. “The Minister is still waiting for the above [evidence].”
Umahi expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have examined the facts objectively, suggesting growing awareness that “not everyone who presents themselves as a victim truly is one, and that, in some cases, narratives are deliberately inverted.”
The minister affirmed that the saga would not distract him from his duties at the Ministry of Works. “The focus remains on results, service, and ensuring that Nigerians continue to benefit from projects that improve connectivity, economic growth, and national development,” he stated.
“We assure Nigerians that this administration will continue to pursue its transformation agenda with dedication, transparency, and an unwavering sense of responsibility.”
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