Mary Habila: Ohanaeze slams Atiku, opposition over remarks

The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has strongly criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures for what it described as the politicisation of the death of Mary Habila at the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.

In a statement, the apex Igbo socio-political organisation warned against turning the tragic incident into a political weapon, urging all parties to allow a thorough investigation by the police and relevant authorities.

Recall that Atiku had called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend Umahi over the controversial death of Habila, a member of his household staff, at the minister’s residence in Ebonyi State.

In the statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General, and Professor Chibuike Achoakawa, Deputy Secretary General, Ohanaeze described Habila’s death as “unfortunate” and emphasised that every human life is sacred and deserves a proper investigation.

However, the group said it is “inappropriate and unacceptable” for political actors, including Atiku and the Northern Youth Forum, to rush to conclusions and exert pressure on the minister.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo makes it clear that Senator David Umahi will not resign as Minister of Works merely because of politically driven pressure.

“No one should attempt to intimidate him into abandoning his constitutional responsibilities while investigations are ongoing,” Ohanaeze said.

The organisation expressed concern over what it termed a “disturbing pattern of selective outrage” in national discourse, where some tragedies attract immediate political condemnation while others are ignored.

It cited the 2022 brutal killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu, a Christian student of Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto, who was murdered by a mob over alleged blasphemy.

Ohanaeze questioned why figures like Atiku, who remained silent at the time, are now demanding swift political action in Habila’s case.

“The sanctity of human life must not be measured by political convenience, ethnic considerations, religious sentiments, or public pressure,” the statement said. “All human beings deserve equal dignity, justice, and compassion.”

Ohanaeze urged Atiku, the Northern Youth Forum, and other interested parties to allow the Nigeria Police and relevant agencies to carry out their duties without interference.

The group extended condolences to the family of the deceased, particularly her father, Mr. Tanko Habila Wisdom, the people of Southern Kaduna, and Senator Umahi, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that requires compassion, maturity, and a commitment to uncovering the truth.

“The appropriate response to tragedy is mourning, investigation, and justice — not political opportunism,” Ohanaeze stated.

“The family of the deceased deserves truth and closure, not a political battle that may distract from the real issues,” th statement said.