Mary Habila: Ohanaeze urges calm, backs probe, opposes calls for Umahi’s resignation

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called on Nigerians to remain calm and allow the security agencies to conclude investigations into the death of Miss Mary Habila, a member of the medical support team attached to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation also described as premature the calls in some quarters for the minister to resign or step aside over the incident, insisting that no one should be judged before the facts are established.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, on behalf of the President-General, Senator Azuta Mbata, Ohanaeze expressed deep sorrow over Habila’s death and extended condolences to her family.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and loved ones over this painful and irreparable loss,” the group said.

“The death of such a young and promising Nigerian is a tragedy to all men and women of good conscience. We pray that Almighty God grants her eternal rest and gives her family the strength and fortitude to bear this heartbreaking loss.”

The organisation urged Nigerians to treat the matter with compassion, warning against comments capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation.

According to the statement: “This unfortunate incident involves the loss of a human life, and as such, deserves to be treated with the utmost dignity and compassion.”

Ohanaeze also cautioned politicians, pressure groups and public commentators against turning the tragedy into a political issue.

“Matters involving the loss of human life should never be exploited for political advantage or sectional interests. Such conduct neither serves the cause of justice nor honours the memory of the deceased,” it stated.

The organisation noted that Umahi had already requested a comprehensive forensic autopsy and investigation to determine the actual cause and circumstances surrounding Habila’s death. It described the minister’s position as responsible, stressing that every suspicious or unexplained death should be subjected to a professional and transparent investigation.