The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has alleged that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi turned down his invitation to a public debate because he was unable to defend his record in office.

Umahi made the claim in a statement released by his media aide, Francis Nwaze, explaining that the proposed debate was intended to evaluate governance records rather than discuss politics or the 2027 general election.

According to the minister, the invitation was designed to give both former governors an opportunity to present their achievements in public office and allow Nigerians to assess their performance based on verifiable facts.

He stressed that the proposed engagement was never intended to focus on personalities, political parties or campaign issues, but rather on accountability and the legacies left behind by each administration.

The development follows Peter Obi's earlier decision to reject Umahi's invitation, with the former Labour Party presidential candidate reportedly stating that he had contested for Nigeria's presidency while Umahi had not attained the same political standing.

Reacting to Obi's position, Umahi argued that political status was irrelevant to the proposed discussion, insisting that the central issue was governance and measurable results.

He maintained that the debate was aimed solely at allowing Nigerians to compare the records of two former state governors and determine who delivered greater value while in office.

The Minister also highlighted what he described as his extensive political and public service experience, noting that beyond serving as governor, he has also held positions as a businessman, party chairman, deputy governor, chairman of the South-East Governors' Forum, co-chairman of the Southern Governors' Forum, senator and now Minister of Works.

According to Umahi, Obi's elective political experience was limited to serving as Governor of Anambra State.

Listing projects executed during his administration in Ebonyi State, Umahi cited the construction of concrete roads, bridges, flyovers, an international airport, a teaching hospital, a university of health sciences, an ecumenical centre, shopping facilities, a new Government House, a judiciary complex and water infrastructure.

He also pointed to major federal infrastructure projects currently being implemented under his leadership as Minister of Works, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Calabar-Abuja Super Highway and the rehabilitation of several strategic federal roads across the country.

Umahi further criticised Obi's emphasis on fiscal prudence during his tenure, arguing that prudent financial management should be complemented by visible infrastructure and institutional development that directly improve the lives of citizens.

He maintained that keeping public funds in government accounts while development projects remain incomplete should not be regarded as a major achievement.

The minister also questioned the conduct of local government administration during Obi's tenure in Anambra State, alleging that caretaker committees were used for much of the period instead of conducting regular local government elections.

Umahi concluded by reiterating his willingness to participate in a public debate on any credible platform, insisting that leadership should ultimately be judged by tangible results and the positive impact delivered to the people.