The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has escalated pressure on the Federal Government following the death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist who was found dead at the Ebonyi State residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
The opposition party is calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances of her death and has urged Umahi to step down temporarily to ensure the integrity of the inquiry. According to a statement released by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, a transparent probe is essential to maintain public trust.
Call for Transparency and Independent Inquiry
The ADC emphasized that because the fatality occurred within the private residence of a sitting cabinet minister, the case is a matter of significant public interest that demands absolute transparency. The party noted that critical details regarding Habila’s presence at the residence and the timeline of events leading to her death remain unresolved.
To address these concerns, the party insists on an investigation completely free from executive influence, highlighting the necessity of a comprehensive autopsy and the public release of the findings. The ADC warned that a standard internal probe would likely fuel public skepticism and diminish trust in state institutions.
Allegations of Official Shielding
In its statement, the ADC criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, alleging a consistent failure to subject high-ranking officials to independent scrutiny when faced with serious allegations. The party claimed that the current administration tends to protect political appointees, thereby fostering an environment where top officials evade accountability.
The opposition group stressed that the situation transcends political rivalry, arguing that the death of a young citizen under such circumstances requires an extraordinary level of openness. Consequently, the party maintains that Senator Umahi should vacate his ministerial position until the investigation is concluded to prevent any perceived conflict of interest. The ADC added that a failure to act would reinforce public perceptions that the administration shields its officials from legal scrutiny.
Background and Official Responses
Mary Habila, a young physiotherapist, died under unclear circumstances at the minister's Ebonyi home, sparking widespread public interest and concern. The Ebonyi State Police Command has since transferred the case file to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, though an official cause of death has not yet been established.
Minister Umahi has strongly denied any wrongdoing or attempts to cover up the incident. He clarified that Habila was a member of the medical team attached to the Federal Ministry of Works and stated that he has actively encouraged her family to authorize an autopsy to clarify the cause of death. Despite these assurances, opposition parties and various civil society groups continue to demand a fully independent investigation.