The Nigerian Youth Organisation (NYO) has announced plans to confer its “Distinguished National Youth Merit Award of Excellence as Best Minister of the Year 2025” on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, citing what it described as his commitment to infrastructure-driven national development.
In a statement signed by its National Executive President, Comrade Okorie C. Okorie, and National Secretary, Comrade Oluwabukunmi E. Awolola, the group expressed “deep concern” over the circulation of videos and commentaries on social media allegedly aimed at discrediting the minister and his office.
NYO specifically referenced a trending video by Mrs. Tracy Nicholas Ohiri, in which remarks were made against the minister and the prosecutorial authority involved in an ongoing legal process. The organisation noted inconsistencies in the claims presented in the videos, particularly regarding the amounts allegedly owed, which it said were variously put at ₦25 million and ₦250 million, as well as conflicting timelines of three, nine and 12 years.
According to the group, such discrepancies raise questions about the credibility of the allegations being circulated in the public space.
While affirming the constitutional right to freedom of expression, NYO cautioned against what it termed “reckless, unsubstantiated and potentially coordinated online attacks” on public officials. It urged Nigerians to verify information before accepting or sharing digital content.
The organisation further questioned the timing and amplification of the publications, suggesting the possibility of a sponsored attempt to distract from ongoing infrastructural reforms under the Ministry of Works.
“If indeed there is a valid grievance, the appropriate forum for redress remains a court of competent jurisdiction and not the court of social media opinion,” the statement said.
NYO commended Umahi’s performance since assuming office, citing ongoing road infrastructure projects and sectoral reforms across the federation. It described attempts to undermine what it called “measurable progress” in the works sector as regrettable and counterproductive to national development.
The group called on relevant security and regulatory agencies to investigate the origin, intent and possible sponsorship of the publications to determine whether they constitute a coordinated digital misinformation campaign.
Reaffirming its support for accountability and due process, NYO stressed that civic engagement must be conducted within the bounds of truth and national interest.
READ ALSO: Anambra High Court Jails Celebrity Native Doctor Akwa Okuko for Two Years, Orders Shrine Demolition
Lagos State command centre ramps up awareness drive
It also warned that Nigerian youths would resist any attempt to pressure the minister into making payments outside lawful judicial pronouncement, stating that any such action would be challenged in court.
In recognition of what it described as his commitment to infrastructure-driven development, the organisation announced its decision to confer on Umahi the Distinguished National Youth Merit Award of Excellence as Best Minister of the Year 2025, saying the honour reflects the collective voice of Nigerian youths in support of impactful governance.
About The Author
