Mary Habila: NYCN calls for Umahi’s suspension

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called for the suspension of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, over the circumstances surrounding the death of 26-year-old physiotherapist Mary Habila.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its National President, Comrade Isah Abubakar, the group said it believes the minister should step aside to allow what it described as an independent and transparent investigation into the incident.

The NYCN also urged the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the case and called for an independent autopsy to determine the cause of Habila’s death.

According to the group, the investigation should be conducted in a manner that inspires public confidence.

“While we acknowledge the Minister’s recent public statements supporting an autopsy, we believe the investigation should be transparent and independent. We therefore call for an autopsy that will establish the cause of death and address all relevant questions surrounding the incident,” the statement said.

The council said it was concerned by reports circulating in the public domain regarding the circumstances of Habila’s death and urged security agencies to ensure that all aspects of the case are professionally investigated.

“The leadership of the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria is deeply concerned about the circumstances surrounding the death of Miss Mary Habila. We believe the matter deserves a thorough, impartial and credible investigation in the interest of justice,” the statement added.

The group further called on relevant authorities to ensure that anyone found culpable after due process is held accountable in accordance with the law.

The NYCN also warned that it could organise peaceful nationwide protests if its demands for what it described as a credible investigation are not addressed within seven days.

“If the Federal Government fails to take steps that assure Nigerians of a transparent investigation, we will mobilise our members and other civil society groups for peaceful nationwide protests,” Abubakar said.

The organisation said its position was intended to promote accountability and public confidence in the justice system, stressing that all investigations should be conducted without interference.

At the time of filing this report, there had been no official statement from the Nigeria Police announcing the outcome of any investigation into Habila’s death.

However, Senator Umahi has previously called for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.