By Joy Onu
A man who earlier accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of owing him ₦7 million has publicly withdrawn the allegation and apologized, admitting that the claim was made out of frustration.
The individual, Obinna Ude Nkama, had earlier circulated a video on social media alleging that the minister was indebted to him for a job he claimed to have executed. The video surfaced around the same time a similar allegation was made online by another individual identified as Tracy, drawing attention across social media platforms.
However, following what officials described as a careful verification of the matter, it was established that Ude had no contractual engagement with the Minister of Works and that no such debt existed.
In a fresh video released on Sunday, Ude publicly retracted the allegation and apologized to Umahi and the public for what he described as a misleading and malicious claim.
“I am Chief Obinna Ude Nkama, who made a derogatory post that has been trending over the malicious outburst I made against my leader out of anger and frustration,” he said in the video.
He further clarified that the minister was not indebted to him and appealed for forgiveness.
“My leader, most distinguished Senator Engr. David Umahi, I wish to clarify that the honorable minister is not owing me directly. I hereby wish to apologize publicly and to ask His Excellency to forgive me. Senator Umahi is a man of high integrity and a very good man,” he stated.
Ude also maintained that the apology was voluntary and not made under pressure from any individual or authority.
“This video is not done out of duress, pressure or request from anyone,” he said, adding that he would accept legal consequences if he revisited the allegation in the future.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Works on Media, Francis Nwaze, urged the public to exercise caution when consuming and sharing information on social media.
The statement emphasized that not every allegation circulating online is based on verified facts, stressing the need for patience, verification, and fairness in public discourse.
It also reaffirmed that Umahi remains focused on his national assignment under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to transform Nigeria’s road infrastructure as part of the government’s development agenda.
The statement added that the minister’s record in public service continues to reflect discipline, accountability, and integrity.
