Minister of Works, David Umahi, has criticized Peter Obi over the former Anambra State governor’s repeated use of the phrase, “go and verify,” when discussing his record and policy positions.
Umahi made the comment in a video circulated on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, expressing his displeasure with Obi’s recurring invitation to Nigerians to scrutinize his claims against available records.
“I hate hearing this statement he always makes, ‘go and verify,’” Umahi said.
The phrase has become associated with Obi’s public engagements, particularly his discussions on his tenure as Anambra governor, public finances, government spending and economic management.
On September 5, 2026, Obi again urged Nigerians to scrutinize his record and that of his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and independently verify claims about their political careers.
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The issue also featured in a September 22 dispute over Anambra’s finances. Obi released documents purporting to show the state’s financial position when he left office in 2014, amid claims concerning debts inherited by subsequent administrations.
Umahi’s latest remarks extended beyond Obi’s phrase. He questioned the former governor’s record in the South-East and called on voters in the region to support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
He also urged South-East leaders to communicate what he described as the achievements of the Tinubu administration in the region, including federal infrastructure projects.
The comments come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections, with Obi and other opposition figures scrutinizing the Tinubu administration while government officials defend its record.
The latest exchange adds to the growing political contest over the records of past and present administrations, particularly on public spending, infrastructure and economic management.