•Mary Habila and David Umahi
The Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria (IYCN) has called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the death of Miss Mary Habila, urging Nigerians to avoid speculation and allow the rule of law to take its course.
The leader of the group, Comrade Moses Moses, described her death as a tragic loss, reports The Guardian.
Saying that the organisation said while public concern over the incident is understandable and the demand for justice is legitimate, criminal responsibility can only be established through credible investigations and judicial processes rather than public opinion.
“The distinction between verified facts, allegations and personal opinions must be maintained. In any society governed by the rule of law, criminal responsibility can only be determined through a credible investigation and, where appropriate, judicial proceedings,” he said.
The council urged investigative agencies to ensure that their inquiries are guided solely by credible evidence and conducted without fear, favour, political interference or undue influence.
It stressed that anyone found culpable after due process should be held accountable regardless of status or position.
The IYCN also referred to a report by the Federal Ministry of Works, which stated that the late Mary Habila had worked in the household of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for about three years before her death.
According to the report cited by the council, Habila maintained a cordial and professional relationship with the minister throughout her service and was regarded as a diligent and committed healthcare professional.
The report further stated that she was treated with care and consideration like other members of staff and that there were no reported incidents of hostility or discriminatory treatment during her employment.
The council noted that the report also described the minister as a leader who motivated members of his staff with kindness and support while pursuing his official responsibilities.
However, the IYCN emphasised that such information should not be interpreted as prejudging the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
“These representations provide useful background to her employment history, but they neither determine nor prejudice the outcome of the ongoing investigation, which should proceed independently, impartially and in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The organisation further appealed to public officials, political leaders, civil society groups, faith-based organizations, youth groups, media practitioners and the general public to exercise restraint in commenting on the case, warning that premature conclusions and inflammatory rhetoric could undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, peaceful coexistence and the rule of law, the IYCN maintained that justice and due process are complementary principles that must be upheld together.
The council also urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding while investigations continue, expressing hope that the truth would emerge through a credible legal process and that justice would be served in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
