Veteran journalist and political commentator Bayo Abati has publicly challenged the credibility of a claim made by social media personality Ohiri concerning an alleged incident involving former Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi.
The controversy stems from a statement attributed to Ohiri in which she claimed that Umahi visited her hotel room while wearing only a towel. Abati, speaking during a recent media appearance, questioned the validity of this account and raised concerns about the consistency of Ohiri’s statements.
Abati emphasized that as a married woman, Ohiri should be mindful of the implications of her claims, suggesting that the narrative she presented raised questions about her conduct and the circumstances she described. He pressed for clarity on why Umahi would allegedly be in such a situation, urging that details be verified rather than widely circulated without substantiation.
According to Abati, allegations of this nature should be treated with caution, particularly when involving public figures whose reputations can be significantly affected. He stressed that serious claims require evidence and that social narratives should not be amplified without careful consideration of facts.
Ohiri’s original account had drawn attention on social platforms, prompting reactions from supporters, critics, and observers across different sectors. Some defended her right to speak out, while others urged a more measured approach, insisting that issues involving personal conduct and character be handled responsibly.
The exchange between Abati and Ohiri highlights broader conversations about personal accountability, public discourse, and the responsibilities of individuals when making serious allegations. As of now, there has been no formal response from Umahi regarding the specific claim. However, the debate continues to stir public discussion about standards of evidence and ethical reporting in both traditional and digital media.