I’m not attacking Peter Obi; I’m asking Southeast not to vote for him – Umahi
By Jeff Agbodo, Abakaliki
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, clarified that his recent remarks regarding the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Mr. Peter Obi, were not an attack. Instead, he urged voters in the South-East to consider not supporting Obi in the upcoming election.
Umahi expressed pride in his work supporting President Bola Tinubu’s reelection, emphasizing the infrastructural improvements being made across Nigeria, particularly in the South-East.
During an inspection of the Trans-Sahara highway and other legacy projects spanning Cross River to Abuja, Umahi highlighted the government’s commitment to local communities. He announced that contractors are required to hire more local workers to enhance the economic benefits for those areas.
He provided updates on the projects, noting that Section Two of the ongoing initiative extends approximately 168 kilometers through Ebonyi, Benue, Enugu, and Kogi States. Mobilization for this section has begun, following the Federal Government’s payment of 30 percent to the contractor, with the project expected to cost billions of naira.
Despite facing criticism for his support of Tinubu over Obi, Umahi stated he has no regrets, asserting that Tinubu is addressing issues of marginalization in the South-East through significant infrastructure development.
“This feedback indicates that my actions are having an impact,” Umahi said, addressing his critics. “However, there are reasonable voices that insist I’m attacking Peter Obi. I clarify that I am simply urging the South-East and all of Nigeria to vote for President Bola Tinubu, and I have my reasons.”
He affirmed that all projects initiated under Tinubu would reach completion during his second term, cautioning against the risk associated with electing any other candidate who might prioritize renegotiating abandoned projects.
Umahi also reported progress on the Enugu-Onitsha expressway, stating it is on track for completion by December, featuring solar lighting and enhanced landscaping. He mentioned that tolling will be implemented to maintain the road and enhance security measures.
“I appreciate the commitment from our contractors and teams involved,” he added, praising their engagement in ensuring effective communication with community leaders and members.
In his remarks, Umahi disclosed that Section One of the Cross River–Abuja Legacy Highway, spanning about 125 kilometers, is nearing completion, with over 30 percent of its route passing through Ebonyi communities. He reiterated the directive for contractors to prioritize local employment to bolster economic gains for the surrounding areas.
