By Aliyu Oyewole
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of University Students (NAUS) have called for a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation into the death of Miss Mary Habila, a nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences (DUFMS), Uburu, Ebonyi State.
The two student bodies said justice must be allowed to take its full course, warning against speculation and actions capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the Senate President of NANS, Ibeabuchi Onyia, and the President of NAUS, Meshach Nwankwo, described Habila’s death as a tragic loss and extended condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and everyone affected by the incident.
“We received with great shock the painful demise of the promising young lady, Miss Mary Habila,” the statement read.
The associations also sympathised with the Honourable Minister of Works and all those grieving over the unfortunate incident.
Student Bodies Insist on Justice
While mourning the deceased, NANS and NAUS stressed that determining the actual cause of Habila’s death should be left to investigators, insisting that justice must be based on verified facts rather than public sentiment.
“We believe it is only just and fair to maintain an objective and unbiased position,” the statement added.
The student leaders commended the Minister of Works for requesting an autopsy, describing the move as a necessary step toward establishing the truth behind the nurse’s death.
According to them, a scientific investigation would help ensure that justice is served and prevent misinformation from overshadowing the legal process.
Warning Against Speculation
NANS and NAUS urged Nigerians to avoid making conclusions that could interfere with ongoing investigations or influence court proceedings.
The associations noted that the matter is already before a competent court and should be handled strictly in accordance with the law.
“As bodies committed to justice and fairness, we caution individuals or groups exploiting the situation to suit their sentiments. The law is clear and must be followed strictly without bias. It is only fair that we all maintain the position that everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” they stated.
Commitment to Monitoring Investigation
The student organisations pledged to continue monitoring the case closely, assuring Nigerians that they would remain committed to defending justice and protecting the rights of citizens.
“We will continue to act decisively in speaking for the oppressed and advocating for a just and equitable system. We will never compromise as the foremost and most formidable pressure groups in the country,” the statement added.
Background
Mary Habila, a nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, was reportedly on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works before her death.
Her passing has generated widespread public attention, with civil society groups, students and members of the public demanding a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As investigations continue, the case remains one of the most closely watched public interest matters, with many Nigerians awaiting the outcome of the autopsy and the conclusions of law enforcement authorities.
