A fresh controversy has emerged following a statement issued by Abuja-based lawyer, Marshal D. F. Abubakar, in response to claims made by businesswoman Tracy Ohiri on her social media platform, Twealthy Luxury Gift and Souvenir Shop.
In a rebuttal circulating online, critic Charles Ogbu faulted the barrister’s statement, alleging that it failed to address key issues raised by Ohiri and instead focused on portraying her as “quarrelsome.”
Central to the dispute are claims relating to an alleged financial agreement involving Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi. According to Ogbu, a recorded phone conversation between Abubakar and Ohiri contradicts the lawyer’s assertion that Umahi never agreed to pay any money.
Ogbu alleged that in the audio recording, Abubakar assured Ohiri that Umahi would release the funds after she published an apology video, reportedly claiming the minister had “sworn” to do so. He further argued that the lawyer did not adequately address this claim in his public statement.
Questions were also raised over the handling of the apology video. Ohiri reportedly maintained that she sent the video to Abubakar in confidence, with the understanding that it would not be made public until payment was secured. However, Ogbu queried why the video was allegedly released before any payment was confirmed, describing the omission of this issue in the lawyer’s response as significant.
Additionally, Abubakar’s claim that a third party offered Ohiri $70,000 “in the interest of peace” has been met with scepticism. Ogbu dismissed the explanation as implausible, insisting that the circumstances surrounding the payment require further clarification.
The critic also referenced the same recorded conversation, alleging that Abubakar mentioned an undertaking by Umahi’s associates to pay Ohiri upon fulfilment of certain conditions. He claimed that when Ohiri requested proof of the undertaking, the lawyer declined to provide it.
Ogbu further accused the lawyer of applying undue pressure on Ohiri to issue the apology video, alleging that Abubakar threatened to withdraw from representing her if she failed to comply. These claims, he said, raise ethical concerns that warrant further scrutiny.
He called on human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who is publicly associated with the lawyer, to intervene in the matter. He also suggested that the case be referred to the disciplinary committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, led by Afam Osigwe.
While public opinion appears divided, particularly following Ohiri’s apology to Umahi, Ogbu maintained that the issues raised deserve impartial examination. #Securitynewsalert.com
