The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has said he is willing to see up to N1 billion raised if businesswoman Tracy Ohiri can prove he owes her N280 million.
The statement marks a sharp turn in the dispute, placing the burden of proof at the centre of the controversy.
Ohiri had accused the minister on social media of failing to pay for campaign materials linked to his time as a party chairman. Her posts also included allegations of sexual harassment, which went viral.
After her arrest and prosecution, her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, intervened. Ohiri later deleted the posts and issued a public apology, withdrawing the claims.
Days later, she released a new video, alleging she was forced to retract her statements and was promised payment that never came. She also claimed her lawyer pressured her to apologise.
Umahi, through his media aide Francis Nwaz, dismissed the fresh claims and insisted the matter must follow due process.
He said two options were offered to resolve the dispute: take the matter to court or present verifiable evidence, including messages and documents, to support the allegations.
According to the minister, no such evidence has been provided.
He added that while he never negotiated any payment, some associates had indicated a willingness to raise up to N1 billion if credible proof was produced.
“Following the failure to provide verifiable evidence, the Minister has directed his legal team to proceed with court action,” the statement said.
Umahi defended Abubakar’s role, describing his intervention as an attempt to resolve the issue. He maintained that no financial agreement was reached.
The minister said he had exercised restraint but would now seek legal redress to protect his reputation, while remaining focused on his duties and infrastructure projects.
