Youth and Women Groups Defend Umahi Against Allegations

On February 27, 2026, three prominent civil society groups, including the Ohanivo Youth Forum, Ohanivo Women Nigeria, and the Nigeria Youth Organisation, issued a strong statement defending Minister David Nweze Umahi against allegations made by Traci Nichola Ohiri. The groups characterized Ohiri's claims as a coordinated smear campaign, asserting that they were part of a familiar pattern of opportunistic agitation led by activist Omoyele Sowore.

They praised Umahi for his restraint and respect for his office, highlighting his eight-year tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, which they claimed was free from scandal. The groups also demanded that security regulatory agencies investigate the origins and potential sponsorship of the allegations, citing inconsistencies in Ohiri's account.

They warned that Nigerian youth would resist any coercive attempts to pressure Umahi into making payments outside the law. The organizations announced a conference to honor Umahi with a merit award for his excellence as a minister in 2025.