The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD Nigeria) expresses profound concern over the tragic and controversial death of Mary Habila, a young physiotherapist, at the country residence of the minister of works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
FENRAD notes with grave concern the numerous unanswered questions that have emerged in the wake of the incident, including those raised in the widely circulated article titled “Death in Uburu: The Questions David Umahi Must Answer.”
The publication highlighted issues that have become matters of significant public interest, including the circumstances surrounding the deceased’s presence at the Minister’s residence, the reported secondment of physiotherapists from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences to the Federal Ministry of Works, the nature of their assignments, and the need for a comprehensive forensic investigation, including an independent autopsy.
▫️These are serious issues that deserve credible answers through lawful investigation rather than speculation.
FENRAD emphasizes that only an independent, transparent, and evidence-based investigation can establish the facts surrounding the unfortunate incident and restore public confidence.
As a leading human rights organization committed to justice, accountability, and the rule of law, FENRAD maintains that every Nigerian life is sacred and that no public official, regardless of status or office, should be insulated from legitimate public scrutiny where grave questions arise. At the same time, every investigation must respect the constitutional principle that individuals are presumed innocent unless and 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.
▫️Such action would not amount to a finding of guilt but would demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the investigative process.
FENRAD further demands:
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 organizations, forensic experts, and relevant professional bodies.
▫️A comprehensive forensic investigation, including an independent autopsy and all necessary scientific examinations, conducted in accordance with international best practices.
▫️The preservation and protection of all physical, documentary, electronic, and forensic evidence connected to the incident.
▫️Adequate protection for witnesses and all persons with relevant information to ensure they can testify freely without intimidation or interference.
▫️A transparent public disclosure of the investigation’s findings and the prosecution of any individual found culpable, irrespective of position, political influence, or affiliation.
▫️FENRAD also calls upon women’s rights organizations, gender justice advocates, civil society organizations, youth groups, labour unions, professional associations, faith-based organizations, and the wider human rights community to raise their voices in demanding justice for Mary Habila.
The suspicious death involving a young Nigerian woman deserves serious attention, accountability, and a transparent process that assures the public that justice will prevail.
▫️The pursuit of justice in this matter is not about personalities or politics. It is about protecting the sanctity of human life, defending the rule of law, strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions, and ensuring that no Nigerian is denied justice because of the status or influence of those connected to a case.
FENRAD extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mary Habila. We stand in solidarity with them in their pursuit of truth and justice and reaffirm our commitment to closely monitoring the investigation until its conclusion.
▫️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.
