Mary Habila: Ohaneze Ndigbo Condemns Call For Umahi’s Resignation

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide has rejected calls for the resignation of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, over the unfortunate death of Mary Habila at his residence.

The death of Habila, a nurse at the country home of Umahi in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Council of Ebonyi State has provoked widespread indignation, and speculations. Many are demanding that the Minister step aside, while an independent probe is conducted to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death.

However, in a statement on Friday, July 17 ,2026,  from Dr Ezechi Chukwu its national spokesperson, the apex sociocultural organization of Ndigbo, described calls for the resignation of Umahi as not only premature ,but politically motivated.

While describing the unfortunate incident as  painful, and one deserving of a thorough , professional and transparent investigation, the Ohaneze Ndigbo, however, condemned the hasty political undertone which some people have accorded the incident.

According to the Ohaneze Ndigbo, the calls for Umahi to resign are not supported by any justifiable reasons. They insist that such an unfortunate incident could happen to anybody.

This is as the umbrella body of Ndigbo argued that the mere fact that the incident occurred at the Minister’s residence does not imply culpability.

The body maintained that it is only an independent , transparent, and credible investigation that could determine responsibility in such a situation.

“The mere fact that death occurred within the premises where an individual resides ,or is present does not ,in itself  establish culpability or warrant demands for resignation.

“Such an unfortunate occurrence could happen in any person’s home or environment ,and responsibility can only be determined through a credible investigation based on evidence” the Ohaneze stated.

According to the Ohaneze, it would be inconsistent with the ideals of justice and fairness political consequences , or demands  imposed, ahead of the conclusion of investigations by relevant authorities.

The body further noted that as a democratic nation, governed by the rule of law,every citizen is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

While lauding  Umahi for his insistence on the conduct of autopsy ,the Ohaneze Ndigbo cautioned political actors, pressure groups ,as well as commentators against  politicizing the incident , noting that the loss of human life , particularly such a young woman should not serve as veritable tool for the building of a political capital.

The body extended heartfelt condolences to the family , relations , friends and associates of the deceased.

It also warned against the stoking of ethnic and premodial rhetorics , capable of undermining the fragile peace and stability of the country.