The Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, has publicly addressed the ongoing dispute involving Tracy Ohiri and her lawyer, Barrister Marshall Abubakar, clarifying his position and setting the record straight amidst public discourse.
The Minister emphasized that his intervention aims to provide truth and clarity to the matter.
According to the Minister’s office, Barr. Marshall Abubakar acted with integrity and a genuine desire to assist Mrs. Ohiri, without discussing or negotiating any payment with her.
However, well-meaning associates independently approached Abubakar with intentions to help Mrs. Ohiri.
The Minister had previously laid down two clear conditions for resolving the issue: either the matter proceeds to court, or Ohiri must present verifiable evidence, with relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.
The Minister’s office reiterated that Barr. Marshall Abubakar neither requested nor received any money from the Minister throughout the process.
Following Mrs. Ohiri’s failure to provide credible and verifiable evidence, the Minister has instructed his legal team to initiate court proceedings to ensure the truth is fully established.
Furthermore, the Minister confirmed that he had informed Barr. Marshall Abubakar that if Mrs. Ohiri could furnish complete evidence, logs in question, some friends, associates were prepared to contribute the sum of One Billion Naira (N1,000,000,000).
The Minister stated he is still awaiting this evidence while the press release also highlighted that the Minister had maintained silence for several years despite persistent provocations and public attacks, choosing to focus on state and national service.
However, recent developments necessitated a response. The Minister expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have objectively examined the facts.
He acknowledged a growing awareness that not all individuals presenting themselves as victims are genuinely so, and that narratives can sometimes be deliberately distorted.
Umahi reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to his mandate of delivering critical road infrastructure across the country, assuring Nigerians of the Federal Government’s dedication, transparency, and responsibility in pursuing its transformation agenda.
