Umahi Accuses Obi of Inciting Igbo Community Against Tinubu’s Government

In a scathing address, Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, has publicly rebuked Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, for inciting the Igbo community against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Umahi’s strong words came during an event in Abuja on Wednesday, where property owners affected by the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project were being compensated.

Umahi, a former Governor of Ebonyi State, expressed his dismay at Obi’s conduct, accusing him of leading the Southeast community astray and stirring up resentment against the federal government. He noted that Obi’s recent criticism of the administration over the highway project lacked merit, suggesting that Obi should not stoke division when the government was taking steps to address concerns.

The controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway has been fueled by the demolition of the Landmark Beach Resort, a $200 million property, to make way for the 700-kilometre project. The federal government’s decision has sparked outrage, with Peter Obi leading the charge against what he called an inhumane move.

Responding to Obi’s comments, Umahi declared that the criticism was baseless and warned against using the project for political gains. He further highlighted that the Tinubu administration is showing compassion by compensating those who were displaced, even those without valid documentation.

“When you condemn people, you bring judgment upon yourself,” Umahi said, referring to Obi’s alleged incitement. He added that Obi’s actions were causing unnecessary trouble for the Southeast community, claiming that the Labour Party candidate would not stand up for the people after getting them into trouble.

The former governor urged restraint and advised people to rely on wisdom instead of falling for inflammatory rhetoric. Umahi emphasized that the government’s actions were rooted in fairness and urged critics to avoid politicizing the issue.