Why Save $50 Million When Nigerians Are Hungry?” Umahi Fires At Peter Obi

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has questioned former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi over claims that he left about $50 million in the state’s coffers at the end of his administration.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during a press conference attended by members of the National Assembly committees overseeing the works sector, Umahi argued that government resources should be deployed to address the needs of citizens rather than remain idle while people face economic hardship.

The minister also criticised members of the Obidient Movement, accusing some supporters of attempting to undermine the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He said he would continue to defend the administration against what he described as coordinated attacks.

“There is a committed effort by some people, through their content creation, to undermine the great work President Tinubu is doing, but we will not allow it,” Umahi said.

He added that supporters of the President would continue to respond to criticism from political opponents, insisting that they would not remain silent in the face of what he described as attempts to discredit the administration.

Addressing Obi’s financial record as governor, Umahi questioned the value of leaving substantial savings while contractors were allegedly owed outstanding payments.

He recalled a discussion in which Obi’s reported $50 million savings were cited as evidence of prudent financial management but argued that, according to former Governor Willie Obiano, settling outstanding obligations would have significantly reduced those funds.

Umahi maintained that governments should prioritise investment in infrastructure, economic development and public welfare rather than accumulate reserves while citizens struggle with unemployment and hardship.

Drawing an analogy from the Biblical parable of the talents, he said public resources should be productively invested to generate economic growth and improve the lives of the people.

“You can’t be saving when the people are hungry, when there is no industry,” the minister said.