Mary Habila’s Death: ADC Asks Umahi To Step Aside, Calls For Independent Probe

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, on Wednesday July 15, 2027, asked the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, to  step aside, while calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate death of a Physiotherapist, Mary Habila, at his residence.

This is as the party alleged that the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration appears more interested in shielding its official, than getting to the root of the incident.

Habila’s sudden death in yet to be explained circumstances  at the Uburu, Ebonyi State home of Minister Umahi has since triggered widespread indignation and speculations with not a few calling for unfettered inquest to determine the actual facts of the matter.

In a statement from Bolaji Abdullahi, its national spokesperson, the ADC emphasized that an independent and transparent probe will serve to assuage frayed nerves, and engender public confidence.

According to the party, the death of a citizen at the residence of a top Government official is deserving of all attention, because it is a matter of public interest.

The ADC insisted that  several questions relating to the deceased presence at  Umahi’s residence, as well as events leading to the death have so far remained unanswered.

The party is of the firm belief that only an independent, transparent, and inclusive probe completely insulated from Government influence would be able to establish the facts, as well as restore public trust.

“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”, the ADC stated.

The party, also,  warned that anything outside an open  investigation will only serve to accentuate public suspicion and weaken confidence in State institutions.

The Party expressed serious concern over the tendency of the President Tinubu’s administration in prioritizing the shielding of its officials over the building of public trust.

“The Tinubu administration appears more eager to defend reputations than to establish facts and submit to accountability”, the party added.

The ADC maintained that given the weight and seriousness of the matter, the only pathway to ensuring that justice is done is for Umahi to vacate his office until investigations are concluded.

“The least that should be expected is that the Minister, namely Senator David Umahi, should immediately step aside from office, pending the conclusion of an independent investigation” the ADC emphasized.