The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD Nigeria) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, pending the outcome of an independent investigation into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila at the minister’s country residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the human rights organisation described Habila’s death as “tragic and controversial,” saying the incident had generated serious public concern and raised questions that require credible answers through a transparent investigation.
FENRAD said the circumstances surrounding the deceased’s presence at Umahi’s residence, the reported secondment of physiotherapists from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences to the Federal Ministry of Works, and the nature of their assignments had become matters of significant public interest.
The organisation also stressed the need for a comprehensive forensic investigation, including an independent autopsy, to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
“These are serious issues that deserve credible answers through lawful investigation rather than speculation,” the statement said.
According to FENRAD, only an independent, transparent and evidence-based investigation can restore public confidence in the handling of the case.
The organisation maintained that every Nigerian life is sacred and that no public official, regardless of status, should be shielded from legitimate public scrutiny when grave questions arise.
It, however, emphasised that all investigations must respect the constitutional principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“Accordingly, FENRAD calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately suspend the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, from office pending the conclusion of an independent and credible investigation,” the statement read.
The group argued that such a suspension would not amount to a declaration of guilt but would demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the integrity of the investigative process.
FENRAD further demanded the immediate establishment of an independent investigative panel comprising representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association, credible civil society organisations, forensic experts and relevant professional bodies.
It also called for a comprehensive forensic investigation, including an independent autopsy and other scientific examinations in line with international best practices.
Other demands include the preservation of all physical, documentary, electronic and forensic evidence connected to the case, protection for witnesses from intimidation, public disclosure of the investigation’s findings, and the prosecution of anyone found culpable, irrespective of status or political affiliation.
The organisation also appealed to women’s rights groups, civil society organisations, youth groups, labour unions, professional associations and faith-based organisations to join the call for justice.
“The suspicious death involving a young Nigerian woman deserves serious attention, accountability, and a transparent process that assures the public that justice will prevail,” FENRAD stated.
It added that the pursuit of justice in the matter transcends politics and personalities, saying it is about protecting the sanctity of human life, upholding the rule of law, strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions and ensuring that justice is not influenced by status or power.
FENRAD extended its condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mary Habila and pledged to monitor the investigation until its conclusion closely.
“Nigeria’s democracy is strengthened when public institutions uphold transparency, accountability, and equal justice under the law. The nation owes Mary Habila, her loved ones, and every Nigerian nothing less,” the statement added.
