Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed allegations by former presidential candidate Peter Obi that he had received threats against his life, insisting that Obi would remain alive to participate in the 2027 presidential election and suffer another defeat.
Umahi, speaking during a public engagement, described Obi’s claims as unfounded and urged political actors to focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than making statements he said could heighten tensions ahead of the next election cycle.
The former governor of Ebonyi State said there was no plan or intention to harm Obi, adding that the opposition figure would be around to test his popularity at the ballot box once again.
“He will be alive to contest in 2027 and he will lose again,” Umahi said, while reacting to Obi’s comments about alleged threats.
Obi, who represented the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, had recently raised concerns over what he described as attempts to intimidate him and other opposition voices. His supporters have argued that the former Anambra governor has faced increasing political pressure since emerging as a major challenger in the last election.
The 2023 presidential race saw Obi secure significant support, particularly among younger voters and urban populations, finishing third behind the candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He has since maintained his interest in Nigeria’s political future and is widely expected to play a major role in the 2027 elections.
Umahi, however, criticised what he described as “politics of fear and allegations,” saying democratic competition should be based on policies, performance and public trust rather than accusations.
The exchange comes as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major parties and potential candidates positioning themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive contest.
