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Nigerian rights lawyer Marshal Abubakar threatens legal action over false claims by businesswoman Tracy Ohiri
Nigerian human rights lawyer and activist Marshal Abubakar has threatened to pursue legal action against businesswoman Tracy Ohiri following what he describes as false allegations against him regarding her case involving Works Minister Dave Umahi.
Ohiri recently made headlines after accusing Umahi of sexual harassment and failing to pay campaign-related debts. In a video that has since circulated widely, she claimed she was coerced into retracting her allegations against the minister, alleging that Abubakar pressured her to record a retraction video with promises of compensation that never materialized.
In a detailed statement responding to these allegations, Abubakar categorically denied Ohiri’s claims, describing them as “false and misleading.” He emphasized that all his actions during their professional engagement were conducted lawfully and in good faith.
The rights lawyer explained that he played an instrumental role in organizing support for Ohiri when her freedom was at stake. His efforts included mobilizing prominent individuals such as Senator Ireti Kingibe and activist Omoyele Sowore, alongside other concerned citizens, to ensure Ohiri was not unlawfully detained and that her constitutional right to free expression was protected.
“Our sustained legal and civic interventions ultimately led to her being granted bail, preventing what could have been an unjust incarceration,” Abubakar stated.
According to the lawyer, subsequent mediation efforts revealed significant inconsistencies in Ohiri’s claims against Minister Umahi. He noted that despite being given multiple opportunities, Ohiri failed to provide verifiable evidence supporting any contractual relationship or service delivery involving the minister—a critical weakness in her allegations.
In an attempt to resolve the dispute amicably, Abubakar disclosed that a peace arrangement was facilitated during which Ohiri received $70,000. He emphasized that this payment was strictly a goodwill gesture and “did not constitute compensation or an admission of liability by any party.” Abubakar added that this arrangement could be independently verified by relevant parties.
The lawyer strongly refuted any suggestion of personal financial gain from the process, stating, “At no point did I derive any personal financial benefit from facilitating this resolution.” He expressed disappointment that despite the resolution efforts, Ohiri has continued to make what he describes as false allegations while resorting to threats and misrepresentation.
This case emerges amid increasing scrutiny of sexual harassment allegations in Nigeria’s political sphere and the challenges faced by accusers in substantiating their claims. Rights activists have noted the complex power dynamics at play when allegations are made against high-ranking government officials.
The controversy also highlights the delicate role legal representatives play in mediating high-profile disputes, especially those with potential political implications. Legal experts observe that such cases often become complicated when they move from strictly legal procedures to negotiated settlements.
Abubakar concluded his statement with a firm warning that he would “take appropriate legal steps to protect his reputation and professional integrity” should the false allegations continue.
Neither Minister Umahi nor his office has issued any new statement regarding Ohiri’s latest claims or the settlement arrangement described by Abubakar. The Ministry of Works has previously denied all allegations of impropriety related to the case.
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8 Comments
False claims can undermine important causes, so it’s crucial that the truth comes to light through proper legal channels in this case. I hope the involved parties are able to resolve the issues in a fair and transparent manner.
This seems like a complex case with conflicting narratives. I’m interested to see how the courts handle evaluating the evidence and determining the facts, in order to ensure justice is served.
This seems like a complex legal dispute with conflicting accounts. I hope the facts can be objectively established through proper legal channels. False claims can undermine important causes, so it’s critical that the truth comes to light.
Allegations of coercion and false statements are very serious. I’m curious to learn more about the specific details and how the legal process will work to establish the facts and determine any wrongdoing.
Absolutely, the truth needs to be the priority here. I hope the legal proceedings can provide clarity without further inflaming the situation.
It’s concerning to see allegations of coercion and false statements being made. I’m curious to learn more about the specifics of this case and how the involved parties aim to resolve the issues through legal means.
Agreed, the truth needs to be determined here. I hope the legal process can shed light on what actually occurred without further inflaming tensions.
This appears to be a politically-charged situation with serious accusations on both sides. I’m interested to see how the courts handle evaluating the evidence and determining the facts of the matter.