I Am Innocent” – Umahi Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations And ₦200 Million Debt Claims

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has rejected allegations linking him to sexual harassment and financial impropriety, including claims that he owes businesswoman Tracynither Ohiri ₦200 million.

Speaking on Saturday during an inspection of ongoing work on the Onitsha–Awka–Enugu Expressway, Umahi insisted he would not be “bullied” on social media over what he described as baseless claims.

The controversy, which has gone viral online, revolves around allegations that the minister owes Ohiri the N200 million for promotional materials purportedly supplied during his 2014 governorship campaign.

Addressing journalists, Umahi dismissed the accusations as distractions from individuals allegedly unsettled by his performance in office.

“I cannot be intimidated on social media. If someone is paid to attack me online, it will not silence me. I remain undistracted. Everyone who knows me knows I am David Umahi, and I am not afraid of anything,” he said.

He stressed that the matter is already before the courts and challenged his accusers to substantiate their claims legally.

“The case is in court. Whether people insult or praise me, it does not matter. If you make allegations, you must prove them in court,” Umahi added.

Despite the ongoing attacks, the minister said he remains focused on his duties.

“We are not distracted from our work. We are aware that contracts are no longer business as usual, and we are prepared for any challenges. But we will not compromise standards. Our focus remains on fulfilling the mandate of God, the people, and Mr. President,” he said.

Umahi also expressed satisfaction with the progress on the Onitsha–Awka–Enugu Expressway, urging contractors to accelerate work to meet deadlines.

“I am very impressed with the quality and pace of the road construction. The first 20km is complete, with just 13km remaining. All sections are being built in concrete to ensure durability for the next 100 years. Asphalt rarely lasts beyond 15 years in this country, which is why we are insisting on concrete,” he said.

He added that contractors had committed to completing the project before the peak of the rainy season.

“We agreed with the contractors that the roads would be finished by April to prevent rain from affecting the construction,” he concluded.