The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, has stated that no politician can attain the presidency through deceit, stressing that honesty, accountability and a verifiable record of public service remain essential qualities of credible leadership.
According to an official signed statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media), Francis Nwaze, Umahi made the remarks during the inspection of Section Two of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway in Epe, Lagos State, on Friday, June 19, 2026.
The Minister expressed concern over reports circulating on social media alleging that former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, had promised to discontinue President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s legacy infrastructure projects if elected President.
Umahi described the reported position as troubling, noting that he hoped the statement had been misrepresented. He maintained that Nigerians would reject any attempt to halt major infrastructure projects that are designed to promote national development and economic growth.
Speaking on the importance of integrity in leadership, the Minister said he strongly opposes deceit in public life and urged political leaders to be truthful about their past actions and positions.
Drawing from his experience as Deputy Governor of Anambra State during Peter Obi’s administration and his subsequent tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State and Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, Umahi said public officials should openly acknowledge decisions taken while in office rather than distance themselves from them.
He noted that leaders across the Southeast have continued to work towards sustaining peace in the region while supporting ongoing efforts aimed at resolving issues affecting the area through lawful and political means.
The Minister further argued that political leaders must be willing to address difficult issues affecting their constituencies, particularly matters relating to insecurity and economic disruption.
On the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, Umahi described the project as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s long-term vision for national development, saying the initiative reflects a commitment to infrastructure that extends beyond political tenure.
He challenged political supporters and observers to objectively compare the developmental records of President Tinubu and Peter Obi during their respective periods as governors of Lagos and Anambra states, urging them to assess the enduring impact of policies, master plans and infrastructure projects executed under both administrations.
According to the Minister, the Coastal Highway project serves as practical evidence of President Tinubu’s foresight in pursuing transformative infrastructure capable of stimulating economic activities across the country.
Umahi also highlighted the economic potential of ongoing infrastructure initiatives around the River Niger corridor, stating that similar projects, if implemented earlier, could have significantly accelerated development in the Southeast and other parts of the country.
The Minister reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu, disclosing that political stakeholders in Ebonyi State had already endorsed the President’s leadership and development agenda.
He expressed confidence that the President would continue to enjoy widespread support across the Southeast, insisting that ongoing infrastructure and economic reforms would further strengthen public confidence in the administration.
Umahi concluded by reiterating his commitment to defending policies and projects he believes will advance the interests of Nigerians and contribute to the country’s long-term development.
