Ohanaeze Ndigbo Exonerates Umahi from Blackmail Claims

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has cleared Minister David Umahi of allegations made by Tracynith Nichola Ohiri, describing them as baseless and politically motivated blackmail. The statement, signed by Deputy President General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and spokesman Chief Thompson Ohia, followed an independent investigation that found no evidence to support Ohiri's claims regarding unpaid financial obligations related to Umahi's 2015 governorship campaign.

Ohanaeze disclosed that the allegations resurfaced in connection with the 2025 elections, prompting a thorough internal inquiry to uphold the integrity of Igbo leadership. The organization invited Ohiri to provide documentary proof of her claims, including receipts and verifiable records, but noted her repeated refusal to present evidence.

Ohanaeze emphasized the need for traditional Igbo conflict resolution mechanisms rather than media campaigns and urged the public to disregard what they termed a smear campaign against Umahi, reaffirming their confidence in his leadership and focus on transforming Nigeria's road infrastructure.