The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex sociocultural organization representing the Igbo people of Nigeria, hereby issues this press release in direct response to the distressing events that transpired during the recent Stakeholders meeting held on Sunday at Victoria Island, Lagos. The gathering, which convened key figures to discuss critical matters under the purview of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, was marred by an unprovoked attempt to publicly humiliate him through orchestrated disruptions.
It has come to our attention that videos of this regrettable incident have circulated widely on social media, portraying a scenario in which an individual, allegedly sponsored by unscrupulous entities, breached decorum and protocol in an apparent effort to defame and embarrass Minister Umahi. We categorically denounce this attempted act of sabotage, which reflects not only a lack of respect for the office of the Minister but also for the principles of civility and decorum that should underpin our democratic engagements.
At Ohanaeze Ndigbo, we hold that such actions are intolerable and represent a broader pattern of malignity aimed at undermining the efficacy of public service and governance. We assert, in no uncertain terms, that the Igbo people, alongside all Nigerians who cherish integrity and dignity in leadership, will not permit further open assaults or campaigns of calumny against Senator Dave Umahi. Let it be clear: this marks the final occasion we will stand idly by while anyone attempts to challenge or disrupt the Minister during any official duty.
Moreover, we have scrutinized the unverified claims put forth by the woman involved in the incident, who alleged a connection to the political campaign of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Following careful intelligence gathering, it has become evident that her actual affiliation lies with an opposition political party—one that has a vested interest in disrupting the Minister’s work and destabilizing ongoing efforts toward national progress. This revelation amplifies our concerns regarding the motivations behind this orchestrated attack and exemplifies the lengths to which certain factions will go to taint the reputation of dedicated public servants.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, emphasizes the necessity of implementing robust mechanisms designed to thwart any future disruptions aimed at the Minister of Works. Senator Umahi’s commitment to engaging with various geopolitical zones through transparent and interactive sessions regarding vital infrastructure projects deserves not just our collective respect but also our unwavering protection from ill-intentioned actors.
We have observed, with increasing alarm, the systematic attempts by segments of the political elite, and their allies, to openly confront and challenge the authority of the Minister. In a democratic society, it is incumbent upon all aggrieved parties to pursue their grievances through established legal channels rather than succumbing to unruly behaviors that only serve to exacerbate divisions. We firmly insist that open attacks and campaigns of defamation against Senator Umahi must extinguish without delay; this sort of rascality will be met with strong opposition from Ohanaeze Ndigbo and all principled citizens of Nigeria.
In closing, we reaffirm our steadfast support for Senator Dave Umahi in his continued role as Minister of Works. As custodians of the interests of the Igbo people, we call upon our compatriots to foster a culture of respect, unity, and constructive dialogue in our national discourse. We stand ready to defend those who labor for the common good, and we will not hesitate to protect the integrity of our leaders against baseless attacks and politically motivated disruptions.
Signed,
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Secretary General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo
