Coalition Defends Umahi, Criticizes Sowore's 'Viral Theatrics'
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) has come to the defense of Minister of Works, David Umahi, amidst allegations of unpaid campaign debts, dismissing them as inconsistent and lacking credible documentation. The group also took a swipe at activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of dramatizing a civil matter and resorting to what they described as "viral theatrics" instead of lawful engagement.
In a statement delivered by its National Spokesperson, Olawale Oladimeji, COCSON emphasized the importance of responsible civic engagement, restraint, and respect for due process in maintaining national stability. The controversy arose from a confrontation at the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, with Sowore publicly accusing Umahi of misusing police authority over a private dispute involving Mrs. Tracy Nicholas Ohiri.
At the heart of the dispute are claims that Umahi owes ₦24.5 million for campaign materials allegedly supplied during the 2015 Ebonyi State governorship election. The coalition raised questions about the discrepancy in the alleged amount and the lack of documentation to support the claim. They argued that governance cannot be interrupted by unverified social media accusations and that civil disputes should be resolved through legal channels.
COCSON's internal review revealed "serious logical gaps" in the allegations, stating that governorship campaigns are structured and regulated through committees, procurement channels, documented approvals, and financial oversight. They questioned the absence of written contracts, delivery notes, acknowledgments of receipt, and documented demands, suggesting that the lack of such documentation weakens the credibility of the allegation.
The group also criticized Sowore's decision to escalate the matter to social media in 2026, suggesting that Nigeria's judicial system provides avenues for civil debt recovery through demand letters, arbitration, and court filings. They warned against the weaponization of digital platforms, emphasizing that emotional appeal should not become evidence and public sympathy should not be used as a strategy.
COCSON plans to stage a solidarity rally in support of Umahi on March 3, countering a proposed protest against him. They urged Nigerians to join them in shaming Sowore and his associates, reinforcing the principle that no citizen is above the law and that justice must be evidence-driven.
