The Southern Kaduna lawyers demand transparent probe into Mary Habila’s death

The Southern Kaduna Lawyers’ Forum (SKLF) has called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the death of Mary Habila, saying only a credible probe will restore public confidence and ensure justice in the controversial case.

In a statement jointly signed by Solomon Musa, Chairman of SKLF, and Solomon G. Yohanna, the Forum expressed shock over the “tragic and mysterious” death of Mary Habila, who reportedly died on June 27, 2026, at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The lawyers said the conflicting reports surrounding the circumstances of her death have raised serious concerns that require thorough investigation in line with the Constitution and internationally accepted legal and medical standards.

SKLF demanded that law enforcement agencies conduct a comprehensive investigation, including a valid autopsy and, where necessary, a coroner’s inquest, before the deceased is buried.

According to the Forum, “Any attempt to quickly carry out the funeral of the deceased should be aborted and refrained from, as that may further precipitate suspicion and mistrust by the populace on the circumstances of the deceased’s demise.”

The Forum listed several questions it said investigators must answer, including the circumstances that led to Mary Habila’s presence in the minister’s residence, the exact time of her death, when the incident was reported, the condition of her body, who was present in the house on the day of her death, and the whereabouts of Engr. David Umahi at the time.

It also called for clarification on reports that Mary allegedly died on June 27, but her death became public only on July 10; whether she worked as a nurse or physiotherapist, when she travelled to Ebonyi State, and the circumstances of her employment and alleged secondment to the minister’s residence.

The lawyers stressed that no individual is above the law and insisted that due process must be followed regardless of the status or position of those involved.

“The answers to these questions will assure Mary’s family, the Southern Kaduna Lawyers’ Forum, the general public, as well as those who had contact with Mary, of the transparency of the investigation,” the statement said.

The Forum urged all persons with relevant information to cooperate with investigators and called on the authorities to make the findings of the investigation public upon completion.

SKLF also appealed to the media and the public to avoid speculation, respect the dignity of the deceased, and allow investigators to carry out their work without interference.

The Forum pledged to provide legal support to the family and monitor the investigation to ensure justice is served.

“As lawyers and ministers in the temple of justice, we reiterate that the sanctity of human life is non-negotiable as encapsulated under Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The law must take its course without fear or favour,” Solomon Musa and Solomon G. Yohanna stated.

They added that the Forum is considering legal action, if necessary, to ensure justice and accountability in the matter while expressing confidence that the relevant authorities would act diligently to establish the true circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.