Habila’s Death: Ohanaeze Warns Against Premature Verdict On Umahi

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has cautioned against what it described as premature attempts to indict the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, over the death of Mary Habila, insisting that ongoing investigations should be allowed to run their full course.

In a statement issued on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, the organisation said while Habila’s death was tragic and deserved justice, it would be wrong to draw conclusions or demand the minister’s resignation before the completion of investigations.

Ohanaeze stressed that the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death should be subjected to a thorough, transparent and professional investigation by relevant law enforcement agencies, including an independent autopsy, before anyone is held responsible.

The group maintained that calls for Umahi’s resignation at this stage were unwarranted and capable of undermining due process and the rule of law.

It noted that every Nigerian, regardless of status, is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, urging the public to allow investigators to carry out their work without political pressure or trial by media.

According to the organisation, justice for the deceased and her family can only be achieved through a credible investigation based on verifiable evidence rather than speculation.

Ohanaeze also called on Nigerians to remain calm and avoid actions capable of heightening tensions while investigations continue.

The group’s position comes amid growing calls from some organisations and individuals for Umahi to step aside following the controversial death of Habila, who died at the minister’s residence in Ebonyi State under circumstances currently being investigated by the police.

It added that allowing the investigative process to proceed without interference would ensure that justice is served and public confidence in the outcome is preserved.