Chief David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has firmly stated that he holds the prerogative to select his successor as the senator representing Ebonyi South District within the All Progressives Congress (APC). This declaration comes in the wake of his appointment as the country’s Minister of Works by President Bola Tinubu, leading to a vacancy in the Senate.
The recent ruling by the Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja, which affirmed Umahi as the duly elected senator of the district, further solidified his position. The tribunal dismissed petitions lodged by the Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates.
Umahi reaffirmed his authority in this matter during his visit to Governor Francis Nwifuru as part of his statewide tour to inspect federal roads. He emphasized his significant role within the APC, stating that only the governor holds a higher rank in the party within Ebonyi.
“We are committed to ensuring that the party zones the senatorial ticket to Ohaozara (his Local Government Area), and we will ensure it stays there. We will engage in discussions with the governor and, if necessary, navigate the court process in response to any opposition,” he asserted.
The minister expressed gratitude to the governor for his support in facilitating the appointment of Chief Onyekachi Nwebonyi (APC-Ebonyi Central) as his replacement for the position of Senate Deputy Majority Leader.
“I requested your assistance in facilitating this process, and you came through, and it is currently progressing. Not every governor desires the growth of their subjects, but I want to assure you of my complete support. President Tinubu abhors division, and you can be confident that there is no competition for party leadership here,” Umahi conveyed.
Umahi also reflected on his decision to switch from the PDP to the APC, acknowledging the challenges it presented. He noted that this move had enhanced the state’s position in mainstream politics.
“This decision came at great personal cost. My properties were damaged, and I faced opposition from the entire Igbo community. However, this choice has elevated our current positions. I encourage everyone to support the governor in strengthening the party’s presence in the state and the South-East region,” he added.
Umahi concluded by expressing his belief that President Tinubu had been chosen by divine providence to lead the nation, a conviction he had held since the election period.
“I call upon the Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and other Igbo stakeholders to support Tinubu. The president granted us a significant ministerial role even when our support for him was not overwhelming,” he emphasized.
