Umahi breaks silence on Tracy Ohiri controversy, orders legal action over unproven claims

The Honourable Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed the growing controversy surrounding allegations and counterclaims involving Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, insisting that due process must prevail as he directs his legal team to proceed to court.

In a statement issued on March 21, 2026, by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the Minister said it became necessary to clarify issues in the public domain to ensure accuracy and transparency.

Central to the Minister’s response is the role of Mrs. Ohiri’s lawyer, Barrister Marshall Abubakar, whom he described as having acted in good faith and with integrity throughout the matter.

According to the statement, Abubakar’s involvement was purely driven by a desire to help resolve the issue amicably, without any personal or financial motive.

The Minister categorically denied any claims that financial negotiations took place between him and Mrs. Ohiri through her lawyer. He emphasized that Barrister Abubakar neither requested nor received any payment at any stage of the engagement.

Providing insight into efforts to resolve the dispute, the statement noted that the Minister had set two clear conditions: that the matter be settled in court or that Mrs. Ohiri present verifiable evidence, including relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.

However, the Minister said these conditions were not met, particularly citing the absence of credible supporting evidence.

READ ALSO: Businesswoman retracts sexual harassment allegations against Works Minister Dave Umahi

Despite this, the statement revealed that some associates and concerned individuals had independently expressed willingness to support Mrs. Ohiri financially. It added that the Minister had indicated that a sum of N1 billion could be raised by these individuals if convincing evidence was provided. According to him, such evidence is yet to be presented.

Consequently, the Minister has now instructed his legal team to initiate full court proceedings to establish the facts and ensure that justice is served.

The statement also highlighted that the Minister had, for years, refrained from responding publicly to repeated accusations and provocations, choosing instead to focus on his responsibilities in public service. However, recent developments, it said, made it imperative to set the record straight.

Umahi expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have followed the matter closely and taken time to evaluate the facts objectively. He noted a growing public awareness that not all narratives presented in the public space accurately reflect reality.

Reaffirming his commitment to national development, the Minister stated that he remains focused on delivering critical road infrastructure projects across the country, stressing that his priority is service, results, and economic advancement.

He assured Nigerians that the administration will continue to pursue its transformation agenda with transparency, accountability, and dedication to improving lives through sustainable development initiatives.