The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an independent investigation into the death of Ms. Mary Habila, who reportedly died at the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, insisting that the circumstances surrounding the incident require full public accountability.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the case had gone beyond a private tragedy because it involved the residence of a serving cabinet minister.
According to the ADC, the only appropriate response in a constitutional democracy is a transparent, thorough and independent investigation capable of commanding public confidence.
“Every Nigerian life matters. But when a citizen dies in the home of a serving cabinet minister, the matter immediately transcends private tragedy and becomes a question of public accountability,” the statement read.
The party said several critical questions surrounding the incident remain unanswered, including the nature of Habila’s official assignment, the reason she was residing in the minister’s private residence, the circumstances that led to her death, and the findings of investigators so far.
“The explanations offered so far have done little to answer the questions that continue to trouble Nigerians. These are legitimate questions that can only be answered by facts and evidence, not assurances,” the party stated.
ADC therefore urged authorities to institute an inquiry that is independent of the executive arm of government, insisting that such an investigation should include a comprehensive autopsy and the publication of its findings.
“We therefore call for an independent investigation that is completely removed from the control or influence of the executive. This inquiry must include a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of Ms. Habila’s death and a public report of its findings. This is the only way to ensure that justice is done and is seen to be done,” the statement added.
The party argued that anything short of an independent investigation would only deepen public suspicion and further erode confidence in government institutions.
ADC also accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of shielding public officials from accountability whenever allegations arise against them.
According to the party, the handling of the Habila case reflects what it described as a recurring pattern in which government officials are protected instead of being subjected to independent scrutiny.
“It has now become impossible to ignore the impression that this administration operates a system of scandal insurance for its senior officials, where proximity to power appears to guarantee protection from accountability,” the statement said.
The party further alleged that official responses to controversies involving members of the administration often appear designed to defend reputations before independent investigations are concluded.
Describing the incident as one that demands urgent public attention, ADC maintained that the matter was not merely about allegations of misconduct but involved the death of a young woman in the residence of a senior government official.
The opposition party urged relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted transparently and without political interference to restore public confidence in the nation’s justice system.
