Tracy Ohiri Retracts Allegations Against Umahi, Issues Public Apology

Tracy Ohiri Retracts Allegations Against Umahi, Issues Public Apology

Nigerian businesswoman Tracy Nicholas Ohiri has formally withdrawn her sexual harassment and contract-related allegations against Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and issued a public apology, clarifying that her earlier claims were based on misunderstandings and online reports rather than personal experience.

Ohiri made the clarification in a video statement released on Wednesday, after days of intense public debate and social media attention. She said the decision followed discussions with her family, legal advisers, and close associates, as well as a careful review of the developments surrounding the matter over the past two weeks.

“I admit that Engineer Dave Umahi, the former governor of Ebonyi State and the current Minister of Works, did not inform me or threaten me in any way regarding a visit to Ebonyi State,” Ohiri said. She added that she had no personal connection with the engineers she previously referenced and that much of her earlier statements were based on reports circulating online, not firsthand knowledge.

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Addressing one of the most widely circulated aspects of her previous claims, Ohiri clarified that she never stated that Minister Umahi attempted to meet her in a hotel room while wrapped in a towel. She explained that parts of her earlier statements had been “magnified and taken out of context” and apologised for any misunderstandings.

Regarding the alleged contract dispute, Ohiri acknowledged that no formal written agreement existed between her and the minister. She suggested that while materials she delivered may have been handled by aides, the minister had no direct involvement or knowledge of their use.

In her apology, Ohiri expressed regret for any embarrassment or distress caused to Minister Umahi, his family, her own family, and others affected by the controversy. “I sincerely apologise to Minister Umahi and all parties involved,” she said, adding that she and her family intend to move on and focus on their personal lives and business activities.

Minister Umahi had earlier dismissed the allegations as false and politically motivated, noting that no complaint of harassment had ever been made against him throughout his public service, including his tenure as governor of Ebonyi State.

Tracy Ohiri Retracts Allegations Against Umahi, Issues Public Apology