Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has condemned what it described as the politicisation of the death of Mary Habila, a nurse who died at the staff quarters of the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Deputy Secretary General, Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation said it was premature for political figures and groups to demand Umahi’s suspension or resignation before the conclusion of official investigations.
The group specifically criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and some northern youth groups for calling for political action against the minister, describing such demands as “premature, politically motivated, and inconsistent with the principles of justice, fairness and due process.”
Ohanaeze insisted that Umahi should not be pressured into resigning while investigations are still ongoing, stressing that every death deserves a thorough and impartial investigation.
The organisation also questioned what it called “selective outrage” over the incident, referencing the 2022 killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu in Sokoto. It argued that all victims deserve equal concern regardless of political, ethnic or religious considerations.
While expressing condolences to the family of the late Mary Habila, particularly her father, Tanko Habila Wisdom, Ohanaeze urged politicians and advocacy groups not to turn the tragedy into a political contest.
The group commended Umahi for supporting an autopsy to determine the actual cause of death, maintaining that justice should be guided by facts, evidence and due process rather than speculation or public pressure.
Ohanaeze further called on the Nigerian Police and other relevant authorities to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation, expressing confidence that the truth surrounding Habila’s death would emerge through lawful procedures.
The statement concluded by urging political leaders and youth organisations across the country to exercise restraint and allow investigators to complete their work without interference.
