Ebonyi Community Warns Against Politicising Mary Habila’s Death
Onyeka Nnabu
The people of Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, have alleged politicization of the death of a Nurse, Mary Habila attached to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
The people who also allege sensationalization of Habila’s death, warned that her death should not be exploited for political, sectional or personal interests.
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They urged individuals and groups to refrain from inflammatory statements capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations on the tragedy.
In a statement signed by National President of the community, Nicholas Odi, the people called on police to conduct a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation, guided solely by evidence, professionalism and the findings of the autopsy to unravel the cause of Habila’s death.
Rulers Council extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late Miss Mary Habila, the management, staff and students of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, and the good people of Kaduna State over this painful and unfortunate loss.
“We have carefully followed the statements of the bereaved family, the Nigeria Police Force, the Honourable Minister of Works, and various reports in the media. Having reviewed these developments, we consider it necessary to issue the following statement:
“We fully supports the call by the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi, CON, for a comprehensive, transparent and independent autopsy to scientifically establish the actual cause of Miss Mary Habila’s death. We believe that only an objective medical examination can provide clarity, dispel speculation, and ensure justice for all concerned.
“While respecting the wishes of the bereaved family to allow their daughter to rest in peace, as reflected in their initial preference against an autopsy, we believe that the overriding public interest and the need to establish the truth make an independent autopsy both necessary and appropriate. A transparent process remains the surest path to justice and public confidence.
“We strongly condemn the politicisation and sensationalisation of this unfortunate incident. The death of a young Nigerian should not be exploited for political, sectional or personal interests. We urge individuals and groups to refrain from inflammatory statements capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations.
“By the demanding nature of his constitutional responsibilities and extensive public engagements across the country, it is entirely appropriate for the Honourable Minister of Works to have qualified medical and health personnel attached to his official team as first responders. This is a standard administrative and security arrangement for senior public office holders and should not be misconstrued or used as a basis for unfounded allegations.
“We also note that the deceased, like many members of staff of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, enjoyed official staff accommodation provided to support the University’s workforce. This fact should not be distorted or misrepresented in an attempt to draw conclusions that are unsupported by evidence.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation, guided solely by evidence, professionalism and the findings of the autopsy.
“The Uburu Ancient Kingdom stands firmly with its illustrious son, the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi.
“We reject attempts to tarnish his reputation through trial by media or unsubstantiated allegations while investigations are ongoing. At the same time, we reaffirm our commitment to truth, justice, accountability and the rule of law. We are confident that the outcome of the autopsy and the ongoing investigation will establish the facts”, the community said.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JULY 18TH 2026)
