Mary Habila: APM asks Tinubu to suspend Umahi, order independent probe

The Allied People’s Movement has called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and order an independent investigation into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the opposition party said an independent inquiry was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death and reassure Nigerians of the government’s commitment to accountability.

Habila, a staff member of the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, died on June 27 in accommodation associated with the minister in Ebonyi State.

Umahi has supported a forensic autopsy, while his lawyers asked the Ebonyi State Police Command to ensure a comprehensive post-mortem examination before the body is released for burial. They also stated that Habila was staying in accommodation reserved for staff members and associates, not the minister’s personal residence, and called for a transparent investigation.

Meanwhile, Habila’s family has approached an Ebonyi State High Court seeking to stop a police-requested autopsy, saying they do not suspect foul play. Police investigations are, however, ongoing.

Reacting to the development, the APM urged the Federal Government to institute an independent inquiry into the incident.

The statement read, “The Allied People’s Movement demands that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu saves the image of the nation and the integrity of the Nigerian government by immediately suspending the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, and order an open, independent and transparent inquest into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila.”

The party argued that an independent investigation would help strengthen public confidence in the administration’s commitment to justice and accountability.

“It also risks eroding public confidence in the Tinubu administration’s commitment to justice, accountability and the sanctity of human life,” the statement added.

The APM said several questions raised in public discussions about the incident required credible answers through an impartial investigation.

“Our party seeks an inquest that answers critical questions in the minds of Nigerians,” it said.

It added that the President had a responsibility to demonstrate that no public official was above the law.

“The APM demands nothing short of a transparent, impartial and independent inquest that will uncover the truth, ensure justice for Mary Habila and restore public confidence in the administration’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law,” the statement said.

The party also expressed sympathy to Habila’s family.

“The APM, as the party of the people, deeply commiserates with Mary’s family and reassures of our commitment to ensure that justice is done,” it added.

The circumstances surrounding Habila’s death have continued to attract public attention, with several groups and political figures calling for an independent investigation while police inquiries remain ongoing.