Umahi Explains Why Peter Obi Declined Public Debate Challenge
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has claimed that former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, declined to engage him in a public debate because he knew he could not match him on issues of governance and infrastructure.
Speaking during a televised interview, Umahi dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi poses a political threat to President Bola Tinubu or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to the minister, Obi was aware that debating him would expose what he described as weaknesses in the former governor’s record and policy positions.
Umahi argued that he had repeatedly challenged Obi to a public discussion on national development, road infrastructure and governance, insisting that he was prepared to defend the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
The minister also criticised Obi’s tenure as governor of Anambra State, alleging that he failed to deliver critical infrastructure projects, including major roads, industrial investments, an airport and a seaport. He maintained that such a record weakens Obi’s criticisms of the current administration.
Umahi further accused supporters of the Obidient Movement of intolerance towards opposing opinions, alleging that critics of the former presidential candidate are often subjected to online attacks, threats and legal actions.
Reaffirming his confidence in the Tinubu administration, Umahi insisted that neither the President nor the APC considers Obi a major political challenge ahead of the 2027 general election. He said the government’s policies and infrastructure projects could withstand public scrutiny and open debate.
