Youths, Women in Ohanivo Constituency Dismiss Allegations Against Umahi
Nkechinyere Ewa
Youths and women of Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State have condemned allegations levelled against the Minister of Works, , by a businesswoman, Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, and activist .
Ohiri had accused the Minister of owing her N280 million in alleged campaign debt, among other claims currently circulating on social media.
Addressing journalists in Abakaliki, leaders of the women and youths of the constituency described the allegations as unfounded and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of the former Ebonyi State governor.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Mrs. Nnennaya Okorie, George Chimeebere Nwoye, Odii Collins, Christopher and Lazarus Ugochukwu Ngwee said Ohiri made contradictory statements without presenting credible evidence to substantiate her claims.
“Our attention has been drawn to the unfounded allegations currently circulating in the media space, particularly on social media, concerning our illustrious son and brother, the Honourable Minister of Works of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” they said.
They maintained that the claims appear to be emotional blackmail and a calculated attempt to sway public sentiment against the Minister.
The groups stressed that the allegations remain unverified and should be treated as such until determined otherwise by a court of competent jurisdiction.
They noted that Umahi served as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023 and was widely known for prudence, accountability and good governance during his tenure, adding that he was not associated with any proven scandal.
The leaders further alleged that the claims were politically motivated and accused opposition elements of attempting to undermine the Minister’s rising profile and performance.
They also criticised Sowore’s involvement, describing it as an attempt to generate unnecessary public drama instead of allowing due process to take its course.
While urging Nigerians to disregard what they termed a coordinated smear campaign, the groups called on Mrs. Ohiri and relevant authorities to allow lawful processes to prevail.
Reaffirming their support for the Minister, they encouraged him to remain focused on delivering infrastructure projects across the country, stating that his achievements in road and bridge development remain visible and verifiable.
