The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed his legal team to initiate court proceedings against Tracy Ohiri following her renewed allegations of indebtedness and misconduct against him.
Ohiri had earlier claimed on social media that Umahi owed her ₦280 million for campaign materials during his time as a party chairman. She also accused the minister of sexual harassment in a video that circulated widely online.
The situation initially took a different turn after her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, intervened. Following his involvement, Ohiri deleted the posts and publicly withdrew her allegations in a viral apology. However, days later, she returned to social media to repeat her claims.
In a statement released by Umahi’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the minister stated that he had earlier made it clear that the matter should either be resolved in court or backed with verifiable evidence.
He explained that during Abubakar’s intervention, he had indicated that if Ohiri could present complete proof, including logs and communications supporting her claims, some of his associates were willing to raise as much as ₦1 billion to give her. According to him, she has not provided such evidence.
“The attention of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi has been drawn to the ongoing public discourse surrounding the claims and counterclaims by Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, particularly as they relate to her lawyer, Barr. Marshall Abubakar.
“Ordinarily, we would have ignored this, but it has become necessary, in the interest of truth and public clarity, to address these issues directly.
“First, it is important to clarify that Barr. Marshall Abubakar acted in good faith and was motivated solely by a desire to assist Mrs. Ohiri. His involvement was entirely selfless and driven by a genuine effort to resolve the matter amicably.
“At no time did Barr. Marshall discuss or negotiate payment of any money to Mrs. Ohiri. However, some associates and well-meaning individuals independently approached him with the intention of helping her.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Honourable Minister had clearly stated two conditions for resolving the matter: either the issue should be determined in court, or Mrs. Ohiri should provide verifiable evidence, including all relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.
“It must also be emphasized that Barr. Marshall Abubakar conducted himself with utmost decency and integrity throughout. He neither requested nor received any money from the Honourable Minister at any point.
“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 Minister further acknowledged that he had indicated to Barr. Marshall that if Mrs. Ohiri could provide complete evidence, logs and communications from the period in question, some friends and associates were willing to contribute the sum of One Billion Naira (N1b). The Minister is still waiting for the above.
“It is also worth noting that for several years, the Minister chose to remain silent despite persistent provocations and public attacks. This restraint was deliberate and guided by a commitment to focus on state and national service rather than distractions. However, recent developments have made it necessary to respond.
“The Honourable Minister therefore extends sincere appreciation to Nigerians who have taken their time to examine the facts and arrive at an informed understanding of the situation. There is growing awareness that not everyone who presents themselves as a victim truly is one, and that, in some cases, narratives are deliberately inverted.”
Umahi maintained that he would not be distracted by the allegations, reiterating his commitment to delivering on his mandate in the Ministry of Works.
“The focus remains on results, service, and ensuring that Nigerians continue to benefit from projects that improve connectivity, economic growth, and national development.
“We assure Nigerians that this administration will continue to pursue its transformation agenda with dedication, transparency, and an unwavering sense of responsibility,” he stated.
What you should know
The dispute between David Umahi and Tracy Ohiri has evolved from social media accusations into a legal matter.
While Ohiri initially withdrew her claims and issued a public apology, her decision to revive the allegations has prompted the minister to seek legal resolution.
The case highlights growing concerns over the use of social media in making serious allegations without substantiated evidence, and it underscores the role of the courts in determining truth and accountability in such disputes.
