In a response to recent events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has pledged unwavering support for Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, vowing to shield him from what they describe as “sponsored attacks” aimed at tarnishing his image.
Ohanaeze released a statement on Monday following the Lagos Stakeholders Meeting held on Sunday at Victoria Island. The event, focusing on critical infrastructure developments under Minister Umahi’s leadership, was marred by an incident that the group alleges was a calculated attempt to undermine the minister’s authority.
Ohanaeze’s attention was drawn to videos circulating on social media, capturing a woman breaching protocol to launch a verbal attack against Umahi during the meeting. According to Ohanaeze, these videos showcase an orchestrated attempt to embarrass the minister in a public setting.
The statement issued by Ohanaeze’s Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, on behalf of the faction led by President-General Chidi Ibeh, reads: “Specifically, a woman, allegedly orchestrated by certain unpatriotic elements, breached protocols to launch a verbal attack aimed at embarrassing Minister Umahi. This reprehensible act was swiftly curtailed by vigilant security agents present at the event.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo condemned the incident, describing it as an “affront to democracy” and vowed that it would not allow any attempts to derail the minister’s work on vital infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
“We, at Ohanaeze Ndigbo, unequivocally denounce any and all forms of public humiliation directed toward Senator Umahi. The Igbo community, alongside all well-meaning Nigerians, will not tolerate such open attacks or a calculated campaign of calumny against their leaders,” the statement continued.
Ohanaeze’s statement further alleges that the woman involved in the incident has ties to an opposition party, suggesting a politically motivated effort to disrupt Umahi’s work.
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“Our intelligence gathering indicates that the woman is affiliated with an opposition party striving to derail the progress of the current administration through underhanded tactics. Such acts of political opportunism will not be tolerated,” Ohanaeze stated.
The group praised Minister Umahi’s efforts in engaging various geopolitical zones through interactive sessions, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo has communicated our commitment to implementing proactive mechanisms to deter entities with malign intentions from disrupting the essential work being conducted by Senator Umahi and his team,” the statement added.
Ohanaeze called for unity and decorum among all political operatives in Nigeria, urging aggrieved parties to seek judicial redress for their grievances rather than resorting to public disruptions.
“In a democratic society, any grievances should be addressed through lawful and established channels. Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for unity, decorum, and respect among political operatives. We stand resolute in our support for Senator David Umahi and his dedication to serving the nation.”
The group concluded with a stern warning, asserting that any further attempts to undermine Umahi’s authority would face significant opposition from the Igbo community and Nigerians who uphold the rule of law and respect for democratic institutions.
