Mary Habila: Group urges IGP to ensure independent, transparent probe

By Henry Umoru, ABUJA

The Northern Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) has urged the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to ensure that investigation into the death of Mary Habila is independent, transparent, professional and free from political interference.

The group made the call on Thursday while reacting to the death of Habila, who reportedly died on June 27, 2026, at the residence of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on behalf of the group, its National Speaker, Hon. Faruq Dangi Ahmed, represented by Shuaib Ishaq Yahaya, said all individuals connected to the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death should be thoroughly investigated.

NYAN said all available evidence, including forensic reports, medical findings, witness accounts, CCTV footage where available and relevant communication records obtained in accordance with the law, should be examined without fear or favour.

The group also stressed the importance of ensuring that the post-mortem examination process is credible, saying the outcome must command public confidence.

“We note the decision of the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a post-mortem examination on the remains of the late Mary Habila. Given the enormous public interest in this case, the credibility of the post-mortem process is of paramount importance,” Yahaya said.

The group called on the police to ensure that the autopsy is conducted transparently and professionally, with appropriate oversight from relevant stakeholders, including representatives of the family, civil society organisations and the National Human Rights Commission where applicable.

It said such measures would strengthen confidence in the integrity of the findings and ensure that the outcome is viewed as credible and impartial.

NYAN also urged human rights organisations, women’s rights groups, youth organisations and other justice advocates to monitor the investigation closely to ensure that due process is followed.

The group noted that the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death had generated public concern, stressing that every Nigerian deserves a thorough investigation whenever a life is lost under circumstances requiring clarification.

While acknowledging the explanation provided by the Minister of Works regarding Habila’s employment status, the group said questions arising from the circumstances of her presence at the residence should be addressed through a transparent investigation.

It called on the management of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, to provide relevant employment records and official documentation relating to Habila’s appointment and alleged secondment.

NYAN said the case had become a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability and equality before the law.

“Justice must never depend on social status, political influence or the office occupied by any individual. The Constitution guarantees equality before the law, and that principle must be demonstrated in this case,” the group said.

It urged Nigerians to remain peaceful while allowing the investigative process to take its course, adding that the family of the deceased deserves answers and closure.

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