By Joy Onu
The Honourable Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed the ongoing public controversy surrounding claims made by Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, stating that the matter will now be resolved through legal processes following what he described as a failure to provide verifiable evidence.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the Minister clarified issues relating to the role played by legal practitioner Marshall Abubakar, who had been mentioned in connection with attempts to mediate the dispute.
According to the statement, Abubakar became involved in the matter out of goodwill and acted in what the Minister described as a selfless effort to help resolve the situation amicably.
The Minister’s office stressed that at no time did the lawyer discuss or negotiate any financial settlement with Mrs. Ohiri on behalf of the Minister. Instead, the statement explained that some associates and well-meaning individuals independently approached the lawyer with the intention of assisting her.
To clarify the government’s position, the Minister said he had earlier set two clear conditions for resolving the dispute: that the matter be decided in court, or that Mrs. Ohiri provide verifiable evidence, including communications and records to substantiate her claims.
However, the Minister’s office stated that these conditions had not been met.
As a result, Umahi has directed his legal team to proceed with all necessary court processes to establish the truth of the matter.
The statement also revealed that the Minister had informed Abubakar that if Mrs. Ohiri could produce complete evidence, including call logs and communications from the period in question, some of his friends and associates were willing to contribute up to one billion naira to address the issue.
According to the Minister, he is still awaiting such documentation.
For several years, the statement noted, Umahi had chosen not to publicly respond to the allegations or related criticisms, maintaining silence despite what it described as persistent provocations and public attacks.
That restraint, the Minister explained, was driven by a decision to remain focused on public service rather than engage in distractions.
Recent developments, however, prompted the need to clarify the situation and address what the Minister’s office described as growing public misconceptions surrounding the matter.
The Minister also expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have followed the issue closely and taken time to examine the facts, noting that many citizens are increasingly discerning about narratives presented in public disputes.
“Not everyone who presents themselves as a victim truly is,” the statement noted, adding that in some situations, narratives can be deliberately distorted.
Despite the controversy, David Umahi reaffirmed his commitment to public service, saying ongoing efforts to deliver critical road infrastructure projects across Nigeria would not be distracted.
He emphasised that improving connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and supporting national development remain top priorities for the administration.
The Minister assured Nigerians that the government would continue to pursue its transformation agenda with transparency, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility.
