Umahi must step aside pending probe into Mary Habila’s death, ADC tells Tinubu
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an independent investigation into the death of Mary Habila, who reportedly died at the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the case raises serious questions of public accountability and should not be treated as a private matter.
The ADC argued that because the incident allegedly occurred in the home of a serving cabinet minister, only a transparent and independent investigation would restore public confidence.
“Every Nigerian life matters. But when a citizen dies in the home of a serving cabinet minister, the matter immediately transcends private tragedy and becomes a question of public accountability. The only acceptable response in a constitutional democracy is a thorough, transparent and independent investigation that commands public confidence,” the statement read.
The party questioned the explanations given so far regarding Habila’s death, saying they had failed to address concerns being raised by Nigerians.
It asked authorities to disclose the nature of Habila’s assignment, why she was living in the minister’s private residence, the circumstances that led to her death, and the findings of investigators.
According to the ADC, these questions can only be answered through an impartial investigation backed by credible evidence.
The party also demanded that the probe be conducted independently of the Executive, insisting that it should include a comprehensive autopsy and the publication of the investigation’s findings.
“We therefore call for an independent investigation that is completely removed from the control or influence of the Executive. This inquiry must include a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of Ms. Habila’s death and a public report of its findings. This is the only way to ensure that justice is done and seen to be done,” Abdullahi said.
The opposition party warned that anything short of an independent inquiry would deepen public distrust in government institutions.
ADC further alleged that the Tinubu administration had repeatedly shielded senior government officials whenever allegations of misconduct emerged, accusing the government of placing political loyalty above accountability.
“The Tinubu administration appears more eager to defend reputations than to establish facts and submit to accountability. Official statements are deployed with presumptions and bias even before independent inquiries have begun. It has become difficult to ignore the impression that this administration now operates a system of scandal insurance for its senior officials,” the statement added.
The party also called on Senator Umahi to step aside from office while investigations are ongoing, arguing that doing so would ensure the credibility of the process.
“The least that should be expected is that the Minister, Senator David Umahi, should immediately step aside from office pending the conclusion of an independent investigation,” the ADC stated.
It maintained that if President Bola Tinubu fails to insist on accountability in the matter, Nigerians may conclude that his administration prioritises political convenience over transparency.
The party described the incident as one that deserved urgent attention because it involved the reported death of a young woman in the residence of a serving minister.
The ADC extended its condolences to Habila’s family and urged the authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding her death are fully uncovered.
“Their daughter deserves dignity. Her family deserves the truth. And Nigeria deserves a government that understands that accountability is not an inconvenience to be managed but the very foundation of public trust,” the statement concluded.
