Northern Youth Council Demands Umahi's Suspension
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Minister of Works Dave Umahi, demanding his immediate suspension or resignation over the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila. In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Isah Abubakar, the group warned that failure to act would trigger nationwide protests.
The council also called on the Nigeria Police Force to question the minister and demanded an independent autopsy on Habila's body, insisting that any investigation linked to the minister or his office would not inspire public confidence.
Group Rejects Influence of Minister's Office in Investigation
"We reject any investigation conducted under his influence or within facilities tied to his administration," the statement said. The NYCN called for "an independent, internationally witnessed autopsy" to establish the exact cause of Habila's death, including whether there were signs of physical violence, sexual assault, or forced substance ingestion.
According to the council, reports circulating in the public space claim Habila died inside Umahi's private residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State. The group also referred to reports alleging that the 26-year-old was found lifeless, naked, and with visible injuries to her face. Such claims warranted a transparent criminal investigation because the incident allegedly happened in the home of a serving minister.
Threat of Nationwide Protests
The youth group said it would mobilise with civil society organisations and youth groups across the country if the government failed to suspend Umahi and begin what it called a credible investigation within seven days. "We'll occupy the streets of Abuja, Kaduna, and Ebonyi State in daily, unrelenting protests until Umahi resigns or is removed," the statement said.
Family Announces Burial Arrangements
Earlier, the family of Mary Habila announced her burial arrangements following her death at Umahi's residence. The family said the funeral service would be held on Friday, July 17, at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba local government area of Kaduna state. Umahi requested an autopsy to determine the cause of Habila's death, while authorities have yet to establish the circumstances surrounding the 26-year-old's demise.
Police Insist on Autopsy
The Ebonyi State Police Command insisted on an autopsy after Habila died at Umahi's country home in Uburu. Police transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department, saying detectives had visited the scene, obtained statements, and planned a post-mortem to establish the cause of death. Although Habila's family declined the autopsy request, the police maintained it remained necessary for the investigation and said the examination would proceed with the family's representative present.
