Works Minister Umahi Moves to Sue Ohiri Over Alleged N280m Claim

Works Minister Umahi Moves to Sue Ohiri Over Alleged N280m Claim

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed his legal team to initiate court action against Tracy Ohiri over renewed allegations that he owes her N280 million for campaign materials.

Ohiri had earlier taken to social media to accuse the former Ebonyi State governor of failing to pay for materials allegedly supplied during his time as a party chairman. She also made claims of sexual harassment in a video that circulated widely online.

The matter initially appeared to have been resolved after her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, intervened. Ohiri subsequently deleted the posts and issued a public apology withdrawing her allegations.

However, days later, she resumed the claims, prompting a fresh response from the minister.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaz, Umahi said he had exercised restraint for years despite repeated accusations but would now seek legal redress.

The statement noted that during earlier efforts to resolve the dispute, the minister had asked Ohiri to provide verifiable evidence, including communication records, to support her claims.

Umahi also disclosed that some associates had indicated willingness to raise up to N1 billion for Ohiri if she could present credible proof. According to him, she has yet to do so.

“Following the failure to meet the stated conditions, particularly the inability to provide credible and verifiable evidence, the minister has directed his legal team to proceed with all court processes to ensure that the truth is fully established,” the statement said.

He also clarified that Abubakar acted in good faith and did not negotiate or receive any payment on behalf of the minister.

Umahi maintained that he would not be distracted by the controversy, stressing his commitment to his duties in the Ministry of Works.

“The focus remains on results, service, and ensuring that Nigerians benefit from projects that improve connectivity and economic growth,” he said.

The dispute has continued to generate public interest, with observers expecting the court process to determine the validity of the claims and counterclaims.