By Emmanuella Oghenetega
Determined to make clarifications about the ongoing public discourse surrounding the claims and counterclaims by Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, particularly as they relate to her lawyer, Barr. Marshall Abubakar, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has set the record straight.
In a statement signed by Francis Nwaze, the
Senior Special Assistant to the Minister, it was disclosed that at no time did Barr. Marshall discuss or negotiate payment of any money to Mrs. Ohiri. However, some associates and well-meaning individuals independently approached him with the intention of helping her.
The statement also revealed that the Minister stated two conditions for resolving the matter: “either the issue should be determined in court, or Mrs. Ohiri should provide verifiable evidence, including all relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.”
According to the statement, Barr. Marshall Abubakar conducted himself with utmost decency and integrity throughout. “He neither requested nor received any money from the Minister at any point.”
“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.
“The Minister further 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 (N1b). The Minister is still waiting for the above.
“It is also worth noting that for several years, the Minister chose to remain silent despite persistent provocations and public attacks. This restraint was deliberate and guided by a commitment to focus on state and national service rather than distractions. However, recent developments have made it necessary to respond,” the statement further disclosed.
