Atiku Asks Tinubu to Suspend Umahi Over Mary Habila’s Death, Demands Independent Probe

By Aliyu Oyewole

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to temporarily step aside while investigations continue into the controversial death of 26-year-old nurse, Mary Habila.

The Nigeria Times reports that Habila, a nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences (DUFMS), Uburu, Ebonyi State, died on June 27 in accommodation linked to the Minister of Works, sparking widespread public interest and demands for a transparent investigation.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Thursday, Atiku expressed sympathy to Habila’s family, saying no family should endure the pain of losing a loved one while struggling to uncover the truth surrounding the death.

“First, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Habila family. No family should have to mourn a daughter taken in the prime of her life while also fighting simply to learn the truth of how she died,” Atiku stated.

Calls for Independent Investigation

The former Vice President stressed that he was not accusing anyone of wrongdoing but maintained that only an impartial and transparent investigation could establish the facts.

“Let me be clear: I make no pronouncement on anyone’s guilt or innocence. That is precisely the point. Only a credible, independent, and transparent investigation can establish the truth,” he said.

According to Atiku, the involvement of a serving cabinet minister makes it imperative for the Federal Government to demonstrate the highest level of transparency in handling the matter.

He argued that public confidence in the investigative process would be strengthened if David Umahi temporarily vacated office until the investigation is concluded.

“President Bola Tinubu must direct the Honourable Minister of Works to step aside immediately, pending the conclusion of investigations. This is not a punishment; it is the minimum standard of public accountability in any serious democracy,” Atiku added.

Demands Police Headquarters Take Over

Atiku also called on the Inspector-General of Police to transfer the investigation from the Ebonyi State Police Command to the Force Headquarters.

He further recommended that independent forensic experts be involved to ensure credibility and public trust in the investigation.

The former presidential candidate also renewed calls for a comprehensive forensic autopsy, insisting that the findings should be made public.

“A full, independent, and internationally credible autopsy must be conducted without further delay, with the findings made public,” he said.

He also urged security agencies to ensure adequate protection for Habila’s family throughout the investigation, warning against any form of intimidation or interference.

Umahi Previously Backed Autopsy

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has previously supported calls for a forensic autopsy through his legal representatives.

His lawyers stated that Habila died in accommodation designated for ministry staff members and associates, and not in the minister’s personal residence, contrary to some reports circulating online.

They also requested the Ebonyi State Police Command to ensure that a thorough post-mortem examination is conducted before the body is released for burial.

Family Opposes Autopsy

However, the deceased’s family has taken a different position.

In an affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court on July 13, Habila’s father, Tanko Habila, asked the court to halt the police investigation and opposed an autopsy.

According to the affidavit, the family does not suspect foul play in her death and wants her body released for burial.

Investigation Still Ongoing

Police authorities have continued their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.

As of the time of filing this report, no official findings have been released regarding the cause of her death, while public calls for transparency and accountability continue to grow.