Civil Society Coalition Cancels Protest Over Mary Habila’s Death

A coalition of 300 civil society organisations (CSOs) led by Gender for Social Justice and Good Governance (GFSJGG) has cancelled its planned nationwide protest over the death of Miss Mary Habila following what it described as an independent fact-finding exercise, saying there was no basis to hold the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, responsible for the incident.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the coalition’s National Coordinator, Dr. Jumoke Adebiyi, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Amina Danjuma, said the decision to suspend the demonstrations scheduled for July 23 and 24 followed fresh findings obtained through visits to Uburu in Ebonyi State, consultations at the hospital, engagements with critical stakeholders and a review of additional information that emerged after its initial statement.

The coalition explained that its earlier plan to protest was based on information available at the time and its longstanding commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of human rights.

According to the coalition, its investigation found no evidence linking Umahi to the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.

It also stated that the deceased had underlying medical conditions which may have contributed to her death, while noting that the minister had consistently called for an autopsy, describing the move as evidence of his willingness to ensure a transparent investigation.

“GFSJGG and its partners have always been guided by facts rather than emotions, evidence rather than speculation, and justice rather than prejudice,” the coalition said.

The organisations stressed that every Nigerian, regardless of status or public office, is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence and warned against what they described as trial by media.

“No Nigerian, regardless of status or public office, should be subjected to public condemnation before the conclusion of lawful investigations. We believe that the constitutional presumption of innocence must apply equally to every citizen,” the coalition stated.

The groups urged law enforcement agencies to continue their investigations professionally and without external pressure capable of prejudicing the process, while calling on Nigerians to refrain from inflammatory narratives and allow the authorities to conclude their work in accordance with the law.

The coalition also acknowledged Umahi’s record in public service, particularly his leadership of the Federal Ministry of Works, citing progress on major federal road and bridge projects across the country.

It argued that years of public service should not be disregarded on the strength of allegations that remain under investigation and maintained there was no justification for continued calls for the minister’s resignation without any official finding of wrongdoing.

Consequently, the coalition announced the immediate cancellation of its planned nationwide protest and directed all members, partner organisations and supporters to disregard the earlier mobilisation notice.

Reaffirming its commitment to justice, transparency, accountability, good governance and the rule of law, the organisations said these principles equally demand fairness, objectivity and respect for due process.

The coalition also commended security agencies for their ongoing investigation and urged them to conclude the matter diligently, professionally and without fear or favour.

It extended condolences to the family of the late Mary Habila, describing her death as tragic, and appealed to political actors and other interested parties not to exploit the incident for partisan purposes.

“We deeply commiserate with the family on the painful loss of their daughter in the prime of her life. Those seeking to exploit this emotional and sensitive matter for political purposes should desist and respect the family’s desire to allow their daughter to rest in peace,” the coalition said.