Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to temporarily step aside while investigations continue into the death of 26-year-old nurse Mary Habila.
In a statement posted on his verified X account on Thursday, Atiku said the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death require a credible, independent and transparent investigation capable of restoring public confidence.
Mary Habila, who was attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences in Ebonyi State, reportedly died on June 27 in accommodation linked to the minister. The incident has attracted nationwide attention and prompted calls for an independent investigation.
Offering condolences to the deceased’s family, Atiku stressed that he was not suggesting anyone was guilty but insisted that only a transparent investigation could establish the facts.
He argued that where a case involves a senior public official, government must demonstrate the highest level of accountability and openness.
According to him, President Tinubu should direct Umahi to temporarily vacate office pending the outcome of investigations.
Atiku also urged the Inspector-General of Police to transfer the investigation from the Ebonyi State Police Command to the Force Headquarters and involve independent forensic experts.
He further called for an independent autopsy with the findings made public and urged authorities to ensure that Habila’s family is protected throughout the investigation.
Umahi has previously expressed support for a forensic autopsy, while his legal team requested that police conduct a comprehensive post-mortem examination before the body is released for burial.
His lawyers also stated that the deceased was staying in accommodation designated for staff members and associates, not in the minister’s personal residence, and reiterated their support for a transparent investigation.
However, Habila’s family has asked an Ebonyi State High Court to discontinue the police investigation and has declined an autopsy, with her father stating in court documents that the family does not suspect foul play.
Police investigations remain ongoing, and authorities have not released any official findings on the cause of death.
