Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has stated that political and traditional leaders in the South-East are exploring diplomatic and political strategies to secure the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, while also maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Umahi also declared that Ebonyi State is not part of the Obidient Movement, adding that both the state and the broader South-East continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He made the remarks during an inspection of Section II of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project in Epe, Lagos State.
The minister stressed that attaining political leadership requires honesty, accountability, and a proven record of service, insisting that no politician can succeed through deception.
Reacting to reports circulating on social media claiming that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, had vowed to cancel some of President Tinubu’s major infrastructure projects if elected, Umahi described the allegation as troubling, though he expressed hope that Obi did not actually make such a statement.
He added that Nigerians would ultimately reject such a position if it were true.
Umahi further stated that South-East leaders are actively engaging stakeholders to promote peace in the region, while also seeking political solutions to issues surrounding Kanu’s continued detention.
He noted that efforts are ongoing to address insecurity challenges in the South-East, including the controversial Monday sit-at-home order observed in parts of the region, which he said has led to loss of lives and economic disruption.
According to him, some leaders have not been vocal enough in condemning the situation, which he believes has worsened its impact on residents.
The minister also criticized Peter Obi, alleging that he has not taken a strong enough stance on insecurity issues affecting the South-East.
He said political ambition should not come at the expense of truth or the wellbeing of the people.
Umahi also used the opportunity to defend the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing it as a key part of President Tinubu’s infrastructure-driven economic vision for Nigeria.
He dismissed claims that any future administration would halt the project, saying he only saw such reports on social media.
Furthermore, he challenged supporters of the Obidient Movement to compare the governance records of President Tinubu during his time as Governor of Lagos State with Peter Obi’s tenure as Governor of Anambra State, particularly in terms of planning and long-term development impact.
Umahi added that ongoing infrastructure initiatives, including projects along the River Niger corridor, are expected to significantly enhance economic activity in the South-East and across the country.
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BACKSTORY…
The comment by Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, comes amid ongoing discussions and efforts by political and traditional leaders in the South-East aimed at addressing long-standing tensions surrounding the detention of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained in detention following charges linked to national security concerns, a situation that has continued to generate debate, protests, and political dialogue, particularly in the South-East region.
Over time, various stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and political figures from the region, have called for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, arguing that a political approach could help reduce tension and promote stability in the area.
It was in this context that Umahi stated during an inspection of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project in Lagos that South-East leaders are actively engaging in efforts to find a political solution that could contribute to Kanu’s release while also maintaining peace in the region.
He emphasized that these efforts are part of broader attempts to stabilize the South-East, which has also been affected by insecurity issues and civil disruptions in recent years, including enforcement of the Monday sit-at-home directive in some parts of the region.
Umahi’s remarks add to the ongoing national conversation about how best to balance legal processes, security concerns, and political reconciliation in resolving the matter.
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