Human Rights Advocate Demands Action as Businesswoman Alleges Minister’s Abuse of Power in ₦250 Million Debt Case
Human Rights Advocate Demands Action as Businesswoman Alleges Minister’s Abuse of Power in ₦250 Million Debt Case
By Naomi Onome
A controversy is brewing in Nigeria as a businesswoman, Tracy Nicolas Ohiri, accuses Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, of owing her ₦250 million for contracts spanning 12 years and refusing to pay her because she rejected his alleged romantic advances.
The case has sparked outrage, with human rights advocate Comrade Prince Saviour Iche calling on civil societies, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the International Federation of Female Lawyers to support Ohiri.
Iche questioned the silence of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and other civil society groups, asking why they’re not taking action over the alleged abuse of power and intimidation of Tracy Nicolas Ohiri by Minister Dave Umahi.
According to Iche, Ohiri was arrested by Nigerian security agents in Ebonyi State and taken to Abuja without a court order, highlighting concerns about the abuse of power by those in authority. Iche criticised Umahi’s actions, stating that leaders like him are “shameless and useless” and have “sold their conscience”.
He further said,
“Ohiri, who has all the necessary documents to prove the transaction, yet Umahi is using his influence to intimidate her. This situation escalated when Umahi allegedly arranged for Ohiri’s arrest and presentation at the police headquarters, where activist Omoleye Sowore confronted him.”
“Sowore accused Umahi of using government power to settle personal issues and questioned why the police resorted to arrest instead of allowing courts to adjudicate the debt claim. The incident has intensified scrutiny of arrest practices in Nigeria and raised questions about influence and fairness in the justice system.”
The case has sparked widespread debate, with many calling for Umahi to pay Ohiri the owed amount and for authorities to investigate the allegations of abuse of power.
Iche criticised Nigerian President Tinubu for the behaviour of his leaders, particularly targeting Dave Umahi for allegedly mistreating a woman who has proof of their professional transaction.
He condemned Umahi’s decision to undermine this matter publicly instead of resolving it privately, highlighting the shameful behaviour of leaders like Akpabio, who cannot control their sexual urges and are making themselves a spectacle on social media.
