Minister of Works David Umahi has explained why he believes former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi declined his invitation for a public debate.
Umahi Peter Obi debate has remained a talking point after the minister claimed Obi avoided the proposed discussion because he could not defend his record in office.
According to daily post,a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the proposed debate was never about the 2027 presidential election. Instead, Umahi said it was meant to compare the achievements of two former governors.
He argued that Nigerians deserve the opportunity to assess the records of leaders seeking public trust. He also maintained that public officials should be willing to defend their performance.
However, Obi had earlier rejected the invitation. He said Umahi should first emerge as a presidential candidate before asking him to participate in a debate.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate argued that presidential debates should only involve presidential candidates. He compared the situation to a football team that qualified for the FIFA World Cup being challenged by one that failed to qualify.
In response, Umahi insisted that leadership experience goes beyond presidential contests. He listed his service as a state party chairman, deputy governor, governor, senator and now Minister of Works.
He also highlighted several projects completed during his administration in Ebonyi State. According to him, the projects included roads, bridges, flyovers, hospitals and schools.
In addition, the minister pointed to ongoing federal road projects under his supervision. He said these projects reflect his commitment to infrastructure development across the country.
Umahi also questioned Obi’s performance as governor of Anambra State. He argued that good governance should be measured by completed projects and visible development rather than financial savings alone.
Furthermore, he alleged that Anambra operated without elected local government chairmen for most of Obi’s administration. He claimed caretaker committees managed the councils until shortly before Obi left office.
Despite the disagreement, Umahi said he remains open to a public debate on any credible platform. He maintained that anyone seeking to lead Nigeria should be prepared to defend their record before the people.
