The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) has accused Works Minister David Umahi of threatening its National President, Engr. Tabara Samuel Kato, during a WhatsApp call on July 28, shortly after the group filed a ₦20 billion lawsuit over the death of 26-year-old nurse Mary Habila. At an emergency press conference on Tuesday, Kato detailed the alleged call, which he said came at 9:39 a.m., following the lawsuit and Kato's appearance on Channels Television.
Alleged Threatening Call
Kato quoted Umahi as saying: "I am David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works. I saw your suit against me, you need money right? I will teach you a lesson of your life such that you will learn never to mess with person like me. I will give you 10 lawsuits. People are mourning and there you are taking me to court. I will deal with you!" The minister allegedly ended the call immediately after these remarks.
SOKAPU described the call as deliberate intimidation aimed at forcing the group to abandon its legal action. In a statement, the association said: "Our decision to seek judicial intervention and file a suit is entirely within the bounds of the Nigerian Constitution and is meant to protect the dignity and rights of our people. No intimidation will work in this matter."
Details of the Lawsuit
SOKAPU filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit, marked KDH/KAF/26/2026, at the Kaduna State High Court. Defendants include Umahi, the Attorney-General of Ebonyi State, the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, and Habila's father, Mr. Habila Tanko Wisdom. The suit stems from Habila's death on or about June 27 at Umahi's country home in Uburu, Ebonyi State. SOKAPU alleges her death occurred under "unexplained, controversial and unnatural circumstances" and that her body was moved to a mortuary without a formal police report.
The association is seeking a court order for an independent autopsy by pathologists from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, University College Hospital Ibadan, and the National Hospital Abuja. It also demands a thorough police investigation before Habila's remains are released for burial. Additionally, SOKAPU is claiming ₦20 billion in damages, arguing that Umahi owed Habila a duty of care while she was under his custody and supervision.
Reactions and Calls for Action
SOKAPU urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, the Inspector-General of Police, and other security agencies to take note of the alleged threats. The group insists that justice must prevail and that Habila's body should not be buried until all questions surrounding her death are answered. The union vowed to continue its legal pursuit despite any attempts at intimidation.
Background of Mary Habila's Death
Mary Habila, a 26-year-old nurse, died at Umahi's residence in late June. The circumstances remain disputed, with SOKAPU calling for transparency. The group has consistently demanded a forensic autopsy and a fresh police investigation, alleging that initial procedures were inadequate. The lawsuit represents a broader call for accountability and due process in Nigeria's justice system.
