…says the distractions would not slow down ongoing infrastructure projects across the country.
ENUGU, NIGERIA — The iNews Times | Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has broken his silence over what he described as ongoing Umahi distractions, declaring that no allegation or social media attack will derail him from fulfilling the mandate of serving President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians.
Umahi spoke on Saturday at the Enugu/Anambra border while inspecting progress on the Enugu–Awka–Onitsha Expressway, amid recent allegations of sexual harassment and financial misconduct circulating in some quarters.
Although he did not directly name individuals behind the claims, the Minister suggested that the attacks stem from jealousy over his performance and his insistence on strict quality standards for federal road contracts.
“The matter is already in court,” he said, challenging those making the allegations to prove them legally.
“If you’re paid to insult me on social media, it won’t shut my mouth. I’m not at all distracted. Everyone that knows me knows that I’m David and not afraid of anything,” Umahi stated.
Addressing the controversy further, he insisted that allegations must be proven in court and dismissed suggestions of private settlement.
“We’re not distracted from our work. We know we’re engaged in series of wars because contracts are no longer business as usual. Wherever the fight is coming from, we’re ready. But we won’t bend the standard. We will fulfil the callings of God Almighty, the people, and Mr President.”
The Minister maintained that the alleged Umahi distractions would not slow down ongoing infrastructure projects across the country.
Progress on Enugu–Awka–Onitsha Expressway
Expressing satisfaction with the pace of work, Umahi disclosed that the first 20 kilometres of the road had been completed, while 13 kilometres of concrete pavement remained ongoing.
He revealed that the project includes a 104-kilometre stretch funded under the MTN initiative, with Niger Cat and RCC handling different sections.
According to him, within two weeks, the remaining portion under Niger Cat would be completed, while RCC has 23 kilometres left to finish.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s decision to prioritise concrete roads over asphalt, noting that asphalt roads in Nigeria rarely last up to 15 years.
“We agreed with the contractors that these roads would be completed by April before the rains come because we don’t want the rain to affect the roads,” he said.
Calls for Tinubu’s Re-election
Umahi also urged the people of the Southeast to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing what he described as unprecedented federal presence in the region.
“When I plied this road myself, I have every cause to be bolder and tell our people to vote for Mr President because of the numerous things he has done for us,” he said.
He noted that during his time as governor, deputy governor, and party chairman, there were no comparable federal projects executed in the state.
“Now we’re having these projects. The quality of work is enough legacy the president will be remembered for. I want my people to stand with Mr President and his Renewed Hope Agenda. Pray for him, appreciate and support him.”
Umahi concluded that visible infrastructure improvements across the Southeast speak for themselves, insisting that no amount of distraction would derail ongoing projects.
