The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has condemned alleged threats against the leadership of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) over its call for an independent investigation into the death of 26-year-old Mary Habila.
In a statement issued on July 29, 2026, RULAAC described the demand for an impartial investigation as a constitutional right and a necessary step toward ensuring accountability and justice, stressing that it should not be misconstrued as an accusation against the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
Mary Habila reportedly died under sudden and unexplained circumstances at the minister’s country home, prompting SOKAPU to seek judicial intervention for an independent investigation into the incident.
RULAAC expressed concern over reports that SOKAPU leaders had been subjected to alleged threats following their demand for an independent probe.
According to the organisation, seeking a credible investigation into an unnatural or suspicious death is “neither an accusation of guilt nor an act of persecution,” but a fundamental requirement of the rule of law.
The advocacy group noted that Nigerian law, the Constitution and the country’s obligations under regional and international human rights instruments require suspicious deaths to be investigated promptly, thoroughly, independently and transparently.
It argued that where a person dies unexpectedly while in the residence, custody or care of another person—particularly a public official—the authorities have an enhanced responsibility to establish the facts through a credible investigation capable of inspiring public confidence.
“Such an investigation protects not only the rights of the deceased and her family but also the reputation of any person who may ultimately be found not to have been responsible,” the statement said.
RULAAC described any reported attempts to intimidate or threaten individuals calling for an independent investigation as inappropriate and counterproductive, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in the justice process and discourage citizens and civil society organisations from exercising their constitutional rights.
The organisation also noted that Senator Umahi has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has publicly expressed support for a forensic autopsy.
According to RULAAC, that position should naturally extend to supporting an independent, transparent and credible investigation conducted without intimidation or undue influence.
The group renewed its call on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that the investigation is handled professionally, impartially and transparently.
It urged investigators to conduct the forensic examination and all other investigative procedures in line with international best practices, with the findings released through appropriate legal channels.
RULAAC further observed that public confidence in the investigation is particularly important because previous matters associated with the minister had generated significant public concern, making it imperative that the current investigation be demonstrably independent and capable of dispelling any perception of bias or impunity.
Executive Director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, who signed the statement, maintained that demanding accountability should never attract intimidation.
“Justice requires that every suspicious death be investigated without fear or favour. Calling for such an investigation is not a declaration of guilt; it is a demand that the truth be established through due process. Those advocating for accountability should not be threatened or intimidated for seeking justice,” he said.
