OHANAEZE NDIGBO PRESS RELEASE: 11th April 2026

The apex Igbo socio-cultural body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has issued an unequivocal warning to all Igbos, urging them to desist from casting aspersions or engaging in campaigns of calumny against Igbo political leaders, particularly the Honorable Minister of Works, Senator Dave Nweze Umahi. The organization has expressed grave concern over the recent and disturbing patterns of deliberate attacks against Igbo leaders, which are not only unnecessary but deeply regrettable.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, after a thorough investigation and careful consideration of the facts, concluded that these attacks are orchestrated efforts aimed at undermining the collective interests of Ndigbo, especially within the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The vitriol and baseless accusations directed against Senator Umahi, a man of notable accomplishments and unwavering commitment, are undeniably part of a broader scheme to weaken the political influence of Ndigbo, using certain elements within the region as pawns in this divisive agenda.

It is evident that the attacks on Senator Umahi are orchestrated by enemies of Ndigbo, seeking to pit the region’s weakest links against its strongest champions in a concerted effort to derail progress in the Southeast. The Minister of Works, Senator Umahi, has been at the forefront of championing infrastructural development across the country, with particular emphasis on the Southeast, under the aegis of President Tinubu’s administration. Ongoing road projects, which hold the promise of transforming the region and enhancing mobility for Igbo people, are now at risk due to these unnecessary distractions.

The recent attacks, driven by political opportunism, represent a concerted effort by opposition coalitions to destabilize Southeast leadership. These adversaries have surreptitiously enlisted a few individuals, including some daughters and sons of the Igbo nation, to sow discord and divert attention from the dedication Senator Umahi has consistently demonstrated. Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands firm that no such attack, however orchestrated, will deter Senator Umahi from fulfilling his constitutional duties.

Senator (Engr.) Nweze David Umahi’s pedigree cannot be tarnished by malicious propaganda. His rise to prominence as a successful businessman, civil engineer, and contractor at a young age speaks volumes about his character and competence. Before venturing into politics, Umahi’s track record as a successful entrepreneur and civil engineering consultant was exemplary. His political journey began as the State Chairman of the PDP in Ebonyi, eventually becoming Deputy Governor, and in 2015, he was elected as the third democratically elected Governor of Ebonyi State. His tenure as Governor, Senator, and now Minister of Works has cemented his status as one of Nigeria’s most effective and result-oriented leaders.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphatically declares that no amount of defamatory rhetoric, malicious gossip, or unfounded accusations will divert Senator Umahi from his mission. He remains resolute in ensuring that critical road projects across the nation, including those in the Southeast, are completed as planned, for the betterment of all Nigerians.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo also extends a diplomatic plea to Mrs. Stella Okengwu, CEO of WinHomes Global Services Limited, to engage in proper dispute resolution channels rather than resorting to public platforms regarding the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway. Issues concerning Ndigbo should be addressed within the community, using established internal mechanisms for fair and just resolution. Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands ready to mediate and ensure grievances are handled equitably, without public airing that could inadvertently provide ammunition for political adversaries to undermine Senator Umahi and the Igbo nation.

It is, therefore, unwise and counterproductive for any individual, including Mrs. Okengwu, to allow personal grievances to be weaponized by opposition forces seeking to undermine the achievements of one of the most effective Igbo leaders in the current administration. These unnecessary distractions jeopardize continued infrastructural development and the collective future of the Southeast.

In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stresses that protecting the rights and dignity of Igbo sons and daughters remains the organization’s paramount priority. We will not stand idly by while any attempt is made to discredit our leaders. We call on all Igbos to refrain from casting aspersions and participating in baseless campaigns of calumny against Senator Umahi. Disputes should be brought to Ohanaeze for resolution, not aired on social media or manipulated for political purposes.

The time for division and internal strife is over. Igbos must unite in the face of external challenges and support those who work diligently for the advancement of our region and people.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo

Chief Thompson Ohia
National Spokesman, Ohanaeze Ndigbo