The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has offered the sum of One Billion Naira (N1bn) as compensation to Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, through his friends and associates, in a dispute over alleged non-payment for electoral campaign materials.
The position of the Minister was contained in a statement issued on March 21, 2026, by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, addressing claims linked to Mrs. Ohiri and her lawyer, Barrister Abubalar Marshall.
Engr. Umahi 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 (N1bn).
The dispute traces back to claims by Mrs. Tracy Ohiri that she was not paid for electoral campaign materials she allegedly supplied during a past political exercise linked to associates of the Minister.
The matter later drew public attention following a series of claims and counterclaims, with her lawyer, Barrister Abubalar Marshall, stepping in to press her demands and seek redress outside the courtroom.
The statement explained that the proposed amount was tied to the submission of verifiable materials to support the claims, noting that the Minister has yet to receive such evidence.
It also stated that Barrister Marshall “acted in good faith and was motivated solely by a desire to assist Mrs. Ohiri,” describing his role as an effort to resolve the matter without personal interest.
“At no time did Barr. Marshall discuss or negotiate payment of any money to Mrs. Ohiri,” the statement read, adding that some associates independently approached him with the intention of offering support.
The Minister maintained that two options were earlier presented for resolving the dispute — either the matter proceeds to court, or Mrs. Ohiri provides verifiable evidence, including all relevant communications.
“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,” Nwaze wrote in the statement.
The release further noted that the Minister had remained silent over the matter for years despite repeated public attacks, stating that recent developments made a response necessary.
Umahi appreciated Nigerians who have followed the developments, noting that more people are beginning to examine the issues closely and form their own conclusions.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to ongoing road projects across Nigeria, stating that his focus remains on service and delivery of infrastructure.
