Umahi narrates own side of encounter with Sowore at police station

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has responded to a viral video circulated by activist Omoyele Sowore, detailing an encounter at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command headquarters, on Tuesday.

In a statement issued on February 25, 2026, the minister’s media aide said the video shared by Sowore sought to “publicly confront and provoke” Umahi over a matter already before the appropriate authorities.

According to the statement, the allegations referenced in the video were made by one Mrs. Tracy Ohiri and have been in the public domain since last year.

The claims, which include alleged assault and unpaid campaign materials, were said to have been circulated repeatedly through social media videos and posts.

The statement said the allegations have been inconsistent and contradictory, adding that this had been widely observed by members of the public who followed the issue over time.

Addressing the circumstances surrounding the police appearance, the statement rejected suggestions that the minister deployed law enforcement to pursue a personal matter.

It said the Nigeria Police Force acted within its constitutional mandate after receiving a petition from the minister’s lawyer, leading to the arrest of the complainant and the subsequent invitation of the minister to make a statement as part of standard investigative procedure.

The media office accused Sowore of attempting to “dramatize” the lawful process by creating a public spectacle, describing it as a pattern of “performative activism” aimed at attracting attention rather than establishing facts.

It added that Umahi declined to engage in what it described as theatrics and calmly disengaged from the situation.

“The matter remains under police investigation, where facts will determine the outcome,” the statement said.

The minister reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, due process, and the rule of law, stressing that he would not be distracted from his responsibilities, including the delivery of critical infrastructure projects across the country.

The statement was signed by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Media.

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.