David Umahi.webp

The Digest:

Works Minister Dave Umahi engaged in a sharp on-air debate with ARISE News anchor Rufai Oseni, dismissing him as "too small" to be reported to the president and defending his engineering credentials as a "Professor in Practice."

Key Points:
  • Minister Dave Umahi clashed with journalist Rufai Oseni over coastal road costs.
  • Umahi stated Rufai was "too small" for him to report to President Tinubu.
  • The Minister defended his engineering expertise as a "Professor in Practice."
  • He declined to provide a cost-per-km, stating the 100km extension is still in ideation.
  • Umahi explained the ₦700bn Dutch loan is disbursed upon certified completion, not given upfront.
  • Rufai Oseni later declared himself a "SAN" on social media, echoing the minister's logic.
  • The debate sparked divided public reactions on accountability and professionalism.
This confrontation highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and technical authority in public discourse. Rooted in the Storm.

Sources: Arise TV