Sowore Raises Alarm Over Ohiri’s Apology Video to Umahi, Seeks Clarification on Reported ₦100m Deal
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has raised fresh concerns over the recent apology video released by TracyNither Nicolas Ohiri to Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, questioning reports of a possible financial settlement linked to the controversy.
Reacting to the development in a statement shared online, Sowore said activists and supporters who spoke up during the dispute did so to defend someone they believed was in a vulnerable position against a powerful public official.
“We didn’t fight for her because we believed she was strong; we fought for her because we knew she was vulnerable and lacked the privilege needed to withstand her adversary, a powerful Nigerian minister,” he said.
Sowore also called on the Works Minister to provide clarification regarding reports that a sum of ₦100 million was allegedly earmarked to resolve the matter.
“Perhaps Engineer David Umahi should explain where the ₦100 million reportedly set aside to settle the matter came from, along with the video he strongly demanded be made to exonerate him from the most serious allegations and the agreement to withdraw the criminal charges,” Sowore stated.
The activist maintained that the role of civil society is to defend individuals perceived to be disadvantaged when confronting powerful institutions or public officials.
“Our duty is fulfilled the moment we stand up for the weak against the powerful,” he added.
The controversy followed the circulation of a video in which Ohiri appeared to retract earlier claims and apologise to the minister.
The video has since generated debate on social media and within civil society circles, with some viewing it as a resolution of the dispute, while others have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the apology.
As of press time, Umahi and Ohiri had not issued further public statements responding to Sowore’s remarks or addressing the allegations regarding the reported settlement.
