The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has called for an independent investigation into the death of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila, urging authorities to ensure a transparent process capable of uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Habila, who worked with the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and was on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, died under circumstances that have continued to generate public interest and calls for accountability.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Isah Abubakar, the youth organisation expressed concern over the incident and demanded a forensic autopsy conducted independently to establish the actual cause of death.
The council said a credible and transparent investigation was necessary to reassure the public and eliminate doubts surrounding the case.
According to the group, scientific findings from an independent post-mortem examination would be critical in determining what transpired and ensuring justice for the deceased.
While acknowledging recent remarks by Minister of Works, David Umahi, supporting an autopsy, the council insisted that the process must be free from any influence and conducted in a manner that inspires public confidence.
The organisation also urged the Nigeria Police Force to carry out a comprehensive investigation and ensure that anyone found responsible for any wrongdoing is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Beyond calling for an independent probe, the group demanded the temporary suspension of the minister pending the conclusion of investigations.
It warned that it could mobilise members and partner civil society organisations for nationwide demonstrations if authorities fail to address its demands within seven days.
The council said justice and accountability must remain the guiding principles in the handling of the case and called on security agencies to conduct their investigation without interference.
The demand came as legal representatives of Umahi renewed their request for a full forensic examination of Habila’s remains before burial.
In a letter addressed to the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, the minister’s lawyers urged authorities to engage qualified forensic experts to determine the precise cause of death.
The legal team stated that the deceased was accommodated in a staff facility and not within the minister’s personal residence, adding that only Habila and another occupant, Anita Baaki, were in the building when the incident occurred.
They further requested that the body should not be released to the family until all forensic and investigative procedures had been completed, arguing that such a step would preserve evidence and strengthen the integrity of the investigation.
According to the lawyers, a thorough scientific examination would help dispel speculation and ensure that conclusions about the death are based on verified facts.
The Ebonyi State Police Command has already commenced investigations into the incident and has indicated that a post-mortem examination is necessary to determine the cause of death.
Authorities have yet to release any official findings as inquiries into the matter continue.