Death At Umahi’s Home: Women Group Insists On Independent Investigation

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

As the controversy arising from the sudden and death of a female physiotherapist Mary Habila, rages, an advocacy group – Nigerian Women International Alliance, NWIA has called for a transparent and unfettered  inquest into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Miss Habila’s  death in yet-to-be determined circumstances on June 26 at the  Uburu Ebonyi State country home of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has since provoked widespread indignation and speculations , with not a few calling for an independent  investigation into the unfortunate development.

Although Umahi has disclosed plans to institute a probe into the incident, NWIA, in an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, dated Monday, July, 13, 2026,  insisted such a move must be guided strictly by the principles of sincerity and openness.

In the letter jointly  signed by Mrs Omolara Abike, Mrs Ogonna Chinedum, and Dr Mariam Adeodun President, Vice President and Secretary,  respectively, the women group, while welcoming the planned probe of the death, however, maintained that the exercise must be manifestly tailored towards strengthening trust and confidence in the country’s justice system.

The  group noted that while not pointing accusing fingers, it nevertheless insists that any investigative processes must be seen to be guided by transparency and sincerity of purpose.

Referencing past and recent controversies, including complaints and series of allegations, that had dogged the paths of Minister Umahi, NWIA emphasized the urgent need not to sweep the matter under.

“The reported death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist,at the residence of the Honourable Minister of Works has generated significant public concern and deserves a thorough, independent, professional and transparent investigation.

“This letter is not an attempt to pronounce anyone guilty. Every Nigerian is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence and the protection of the process.

“However, the higher the public office, the greater the obligation to submit to transparent scrutiny.

“We do not present those allegations as established facts. Rather, we believe that where multiple concerns arise regarding a public official, the appropriate response is for competent authorities to investigate any credible complaints fairly and Independently”, the women group stated.

It warned that the conduct of any questionable investigation  could serve to further erode public trust and confidence in Government institutions as well as discourage victims and witnesses from reporting alleged misconducts.

According to the NWIA, the mishandling of the inquest into the death could also damage Nigeria’s reputation, undermine the rule of law, and erode investor confidence.

While appealing for the preservation and examination of all forensic evidence, including the autopsy report, protection of witnesses and complainants against intimidation, the group urged President Tinubu to ensure that the law applies in the present circumstances.