Obi Avoided Debate Because He Could Not Defend Record as Governor — Umahi

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has alleged that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, rejected his invitation for a public debate because he would be unable to defend his record while in office.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his media aide, Francis Nwaze, Umahi said the proposed debate was not connected to the 2027 general elections or partisan politics, but was designed to allow Nigerians assess the performance records of both former governors based on verifiable achievements.

The minister explained that the debate was centred on governance, leadership, accountability and measurable results rather than personal attacks or political affiliations.

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Obi had earlier declined the invitation, arguing that he was a presidential candidate of a national political party, while Umahi did not occupy a similar political position.

Reacting to Obi’s response, Umahi insisted that the proposed engagement was about evaluating public service records and not about comparing electoral status.

The minister highlighted his political journey, stating that he had served in various capacities including businessman, party chairman, deputy governor, governor, Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, Co-Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, senator and Minister of Works.

Umahi argued that Obi’s major elective position was serving as governor of Anambra State, noting that the former governor had not held positions such as party chairman, senator or minister.

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Speaking on his tenure as Ebonyi State governor, Umahi listed several projects completed under his administration, including concrete roads, flyovers, bridges, an international airport, a teaching hospital, a university of health sciences, an ecumenical centre, shopping mall, government house, judiciary complex and water projects.

He also highlighted major federal infrastructure projects being executed under his leadership as Minister of Works, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Calabar-Abuja Super Highway and the rehabilitation of federal roads across the country.

Umahi further criticised Obi’s focus on savings and fiscal discipline, arguing that leadership should also be measured by physical infrastructure, institutional development and direct impact on citizens.

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The minister also accused Obi’s administration in Anambra of failing to conduct regular local government elections during most of his tenure, alleging that caretaker committees were used instead.

Umahi maintained that public office holders should be judged by their achievements and reiterated his readiness to participate in a debate on any credible platform where records of service can be examined.

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