Minister of Works David Umahi has dismissed claims by opposition figure Peter Obi that he fears for his safety ahead of the 2027 election, insisting Obi will live to witness President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inauguration for a second term. The minister also argued that Obi lacks the political strength to defeat the incumbent president.

Nigeria’s political exchanges ahead of the 2027 general election intensified on Friday as Minister of Works David Umahi launched a fresh verbal attack on Peter Obi, rejecting suggestions that the former Anambra governor faces any threat to his life because of his political ambitions.

Instead, Umahi predicted that Obi would remain alive to witness President Bola Tinubu’s swearing-in after the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking while reacting to Obi’s recent comments about his safety, Umahi described the opposition politician’s concerns as unfounded.

The minister maintained that Obi would contest the election if he chooses but would ultimately lose to President Tinubu, whom he said enjoys significant political support across the country.

Umahi further argued that the APC administration has delivered enough infrastructure projects to earn another mandate from Nigerians in 2027.

The latest remarks come amid escalating rhetoric between members of the ruling APC and opposition leaders as preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum.

Peter Obi had recently alleged that some actions by the Federal Government suggested attempts to intimidate opposition figures, an allegation the Presidency has repeatedly rejected.

Umahi has been one of Tinubu’s most outspoken defenders in recent weeks, frequently dismissing opposition criticism while expressing confidence that the President will secure a second term.

According to Umahi:

“You will be alive to witness Tinubu’s swearing-in in 2027.”

He also insisted that Obi poses no electoral threat to President Tinubu and urged him to focus on democratic competition rather than raising concerns about his personal safety.

Umahi’s latest comments add to the increasingly heated political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 election, with both the ruling APC and opposition leaders continuing to trade accusations over governance, security and electoral prospects. As campaigns draw closer, such exchanges are expected to intensify across the political landscape.