Umahi Denies Sexual Harassment Allegation, Says Claims Meant to Stir Social Media

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has dismissed allegations that he sexually harassed a businesswoman and failed to repay funds linked to campaign-related transactions, describing the claims as baseless and driven by mischief.

Umahi was reacting to accusations made by businesswoman Tracyniter (Tracy) Nicholas Ohiri, who alleged that the former Ebonyi State governor made advances toward her years ago and owed her money. Ohiri was recently arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, on a defamation charge after making the allegations public.

The court granted her bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties after she pleaded not guilty, while the matter was adjourned for further hearing.

The controversy gained traction on social media following the circulation of viral videos, including one showing activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, confronting the minister. Reports also indicated attempts by security operatives to re-arrest Ohiri after she was granted bail.

Speaking in a video response, Umahi said his public service record speaks for itself, insisting that no such allegations were made against him throughout his years in office.

“I have served as party chairman, deputy governor and governor for eight years, and nobody ever accused me of harassment,” he said, adding that he remained unfazed by discussions on social media.

According to him, online reactions do not trouble him but rather strengthen his resolve, noting that he had faced tougher political battles in the past.

The minister also referenced Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan while responding to insinuations surrounding the allegation, suggesting that the accusation was intended to generate attention online.

“There is nothing wrong if someone says you are chasing a woman, but not just anyone will make such claims,” he said, maintaining that the controversy was exaggerated to keep social media active.

Umahi urged the public to focus attention on more pressing global developments, including the ongoing tensions involving Iran, rather than the allegations against him.

Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier, in a February 2025 interview, accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of making sexual advances toward her — an allegation the Senate President has consistently denied.

The case involving Ohiri and the minister is expected to continue when the court resumes hearing on the matter.