David Nweze Umahi, born on July 25, 1963, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, is a distinguished engineer and politician. He has held significant positions, including Governor of Ebonyi State (2015–2023), Senator representing Ebonyi South (June–August 2023), and currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Works since August 21, 2023. Wikipedia
Early Life and Education
Umahi was born to Elder Joseph Umahi Nwaze and Deaconess Margaret Umahi. He began his education at Umunaga Primary School in Uburu (1971–1977), obtaining his First School Leaving Certificate with distinction. He attended Ishiagu High School briefly before completing his secondary education at Government Secondary School, Afikpo. In 1982, he enrolled at Anambra State University of Science and Technology (now Enugu State University of Science and Technology), earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1987. Naijabiography Media
Professional Career
Before venturing into politics, Umahi co-founded Norman Engineering & Construction Nigeria Ltd and later led Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Ltd, establishing himself in the engineering sector. Wikipedia
Political Career
- Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State (2011–2015): Umahi served as Deputy Governor under Governor Martin Elechi. Wikipedia
- Governor of Ebonyi State (2015–2023): Elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2019, Umahi’s tenure focused on infrastructure development, education, health, and agriculture. Skabash!
- Defection to APC (2020): On November 17, 2020, Umahi defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alleged injustice by the PDP towards the Southeast region. Politicians Data
- Senator for Ebonyi South (2023): Umahi was elected Senator in 2023 but resigned in August 2023 to assume the role of Minister of Works. Wikipedia
- Minister of Works (2023–Present): Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, Umahi was sworn in on August 21, 2023. Wikipedia
Controversies
- Defection Legal Battle (2022): Following his defection to the APC, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered Umahi’s removal from office, stating that votes belonged to the party. Umahi appealed the decision, leading to debates on the legality of gubernatorial defections. Premium Times Nigeria
- Alleged Misappropriation (2021): Reports surfaced alleging that Umahi transferred over ₦3.6 billion from Ebonyi State funds to his company, Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited, during his tenure as Deputy Governor and Governor. Umahi denied the allegations and initiated legal action against the reporting outlet. Wikipedia
- Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project (2024): As Minister of Works, Umahi faced scrutiny over the ₦15 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. He expressed readiness to address the House of Representatives’ probe and proposed live broadcasts of the hearings to ensure transparency. Punch Newspapers
Personal Life
Umahi is married to Rachael Umahi, and they have seven children. He is known for his philanthropic activities and commitment to community development. Media Nigeria
Awards and Recognitions
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred upon Umahi the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his contributions to national development. Wikipedia
Associations with Notable Igbo Figures
Throughout his career, Umahi has collaborated with prominent Igbo personalities, including:
- Martin Elechi: Served as Deputy Governor under Elechi’s administration in Ebonyi State. Wikipedia
- Orji Uzor Kalu: Engaged in political discourse and regional development initiatives with the former Governor of Abia State.
Conclusion
David Umahi’s journey from an engineer to a prominent political figure underscores his dedication to public service and infrastructure development. Despite facing controversies, his impact on Ebonyi State and Nigeria’s political landscape remains significant.
References
- “David Umahi.” Wikipedia. Accessed January 20, 2025. Wikipedia
- “David Umahi Biography.” Naija Biography. Accessed January 20, 2025. Naijabiography Media
- “Dave Umahi: Biography, Career, Achievements, Controversies.” Skabash. Accessed January 20, 2025. Skabash!
- “Defection: How Sack of Governor Umahi Highlights Nigerian Judiciary’s Inconsistency.” Premium Times. Accessed January 20, 2025. Premium Times Nigeria
- “Coastal Highway Controversy: Minister Plans Live Transmission of Reps Probe Panel Hearing.” Punch. Accessed January 20, 2025. Punch Newspapers
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