The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that he made inappropriate advances toward a woman several years ago, describing the claims as baseless and insignificant.
A businesswoman, Tracyniter Nicholas Ohiri, alleged in a widely shared video that the minister demanded sexual favours in exchange for settling what she described as an outstanding debt. The video quickly gained attention online, sparking widespread debate.
Ohiri was later arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, on a charge of defamation.
Responding to the allegations in a video recorded in Enugu after inspecting federal government projects in Enugu and Anambra states, Umahi said he was unbothered by the social media discussions, maintaining that such accusations only strengthen his resolve.
“Don’t insult your leaders because what a man soweth is what he reaps. People know me very well.
”I was a party chairman, Deputy Governor, and Governor for eight years, and nobody said I harassed anyone,” Umahi said.
“What you read on social media, you know I’m not worried about it.”
“It makes me stronger. I’ve fought many battles, so this is not one.”
The former governor insisted that the allegations were politically motivated and suggested they were part of broader manoeuvres by opponents ahead of future political activities.
“I know it’s all about politics, and politics has started, but when the right time comes, and the whistle is blown by INEC, we will know what we are made of,” he said, referencing the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Umahi argued that the accusations were primarily intended to generate online attention and controversy rather than address substantive issues.
“There’s nothing wrong with saying, ‘Oh, you are chasing a woman,’” he said. “But if it is Natasha who is accusing me of chasing her, then my face will be bolder.”
He further dismissed the timeline of the allegation, stating that the suggestion of pursuing someone over a 12-year period was implausible and indicative of an attempt to keep social media conversations alive.
The minister also urged Nigerians to concentrate on more pressing global developments, including rising tensions in the Middle East and unfolding events in Iran, rather than what he described as distractions.
What you should know
Minister Dave Umahi has firmly denied allegations made in a viral video claiming he demanded sexual favours in exchange for debt repayment.
The accuser has since been charged with defamation in Abuja. Umahi described the claims as politically motivated and said he remains unconcerned by social media narratives, insisting they will not affect his public standing.
He has called on the public to focus on governance and broader global issues instead of what he termed online distractions.
