Umahi’s intervention followed a viral video from April 24, which showed a disagreement between the senator representing Ebonyi Central, Ken Eze, and a National Assembly aspirant, Christian Asaga Nwali, during a burial ceremony in the state.
The dispute reportedly centred on succession plans for the senatorial seat.
In response, the minister convened a meeting with both leaders on April 26 to de-escalate tensions and restore unity within the political fold.
He described both men in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze,, as his political mentees and commended them for showing respect and willingness to resolve the disagreement.
Umahi recalled that there had been a prior understanding for the Ebonyi Central senatorial seat to rotate to Ikwo after the current tenure, a decision he said was reached during the administration of former governor Martin Elechi. However, he noted that political decisions must reflect current realities.
He advised the parties to channel their concerns through the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, urging both camps to select representatives and engage the governor for a structured resolution.
According to Umahi, only inclusive dialogue involving key stakeholders can ensure fairness and long-term stability, stressing that both Ikwo and Ezza communities would have opportunities in the future.
Shifting focus to broader political objectives, the minister emphasised the need for unity to secure overwhelming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next election.
He stated that political strategies in the state would prioritise delivering a decisive mandate for the President, citing ongoing federal projects in Ebonyi as justification for continued support.
Umahi added that consultations were ongoing to produce consensus candidates for National Assembly positions, noting that such decisions would be guided by the goal of maximising votes for Tinubu’s re-election.
He also reaffirmed support for Governor Nwifuru, warning against any political challenge to his position and reiterating commitment to the continuity of governance in the state.
Earlier, Senator Eze commended Umahi’s intervention, describing him as a father figure and urging supporters to avoid inflammatory statements, particularly on social media.
Similarly, Nwali called for unity and respect for leadership, appealing to supporters to refrain from insults and allow due process to guide political decisions.
The meeting ended with renewed commitments from both leaders to maintain peace and work together in the interest of Ebonyi State.