Sahara Reporters, owned by Omoyele Sowore, has once again published a misleading report with the caption: “Court Strikes Out Defamation Suit Against Businesswoman, Tracy Ohiri Who Accused Works Minister Umahi Of Debts.”
This publication is inaccurate and clearly framed to misinform the public.
For the record, the matter before the Magistrate Court was not struck out on merit. It was withdrawn by the legal team of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, following proper legal advice that the Magistrate Court lacks jurisdiction to entertain the criminal aspects of the case.
Contrary to the impression created by Sahara Reporters, this is far from the end of the matter. It is, in fact, the beginning of more substantive proceedings:
- A 13-count criminal charge has been filed against Mrs. Tracy Ohiri at the Federal High Court (Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/172/2026) under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
- Additionally, two separate civil suits for defamation have been instituted at the State High Court.
These proceedings provide Mrs. Ohiri with the appropriate legal platform to present credible and verifiable evidence in support of her allegations, rather than relying on unsubstantiated claims on social media.
It is therefore misleading for Sahara Reporters to suggest that the case was dismissed in a way that vindicates the defendant. That characterization is not only inaccurate but undermines public understanding of judicial processes.
The public and responsible media are encouraged to follow these matters through the appropriate courts, where facts, not sensational headlines, will determine the outcome.
This matter is now firmly before courts of competent jurisdiction, and the law will take its full course.
Persistent distortion of facts raises serious concerns about editorial standards and the responsibility owed to the public.
Kingsley Chukwudi
Public Affairs Analyst