ADC demands independent probe into nurse’s death, asks Umahi to step aside

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded an independent investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a nurse who reportedly died at the residence of David Umahi, the Minister of Works, in Ebonyi State.

The party also called on Umahi to step aside pending the conclusion of the investigation, arguing that his continued stay in office could undermine public confidence in the credibility and independence of any probe into the circumstances surrounding the nurse’s death.

The ADC’s demand followed Umahi’s first public comments on the incident, in which he described Habila as “a good nurse” and dismissed claims that the circumstances surrounding her death were being concealed.

Umahi said Habila’s family became worried after they could not reach her and forced open the door to her room. According to him, doctors from the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH) were immediately called and took the nurse to the hospital, where efforts to revive her failed.

The minister also disclosed that he had directed that an autopsy be conducted to determine the cause of death, subject to the consent of Habila’s parents. He further said the matter had been reported to the police.

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However, in a statement issued by Bolaji Abdullahi, its National Publicity Secretary, the ADC insisted that the investigation must be completely independent of the Executive.

The party said several questions remained unanswered, including the nature of Habila’s official assignment, why she was residing at the minister’s private residence and the precise circumstances that led to her death.

“We therefore call for an independent investigation that is completely removed from the control or influence of the Executive,” the party said.

The ADC demanded a full autopsy and the public release of the findings, arguing that only facts and evidence could address the growing concerns surrounding the incident.

The party also accused the President Bola Tinubu administration of shielding senior officials from independent scrutiny whenever serious allegations arise, describing the alleged pattern as a “government of cover-ups.”

It said Umahi’s decision to remain in office while a “murder-related scandal” was linked to his residence raised serious concerns about accountability.

The ADC extended condolences to Habila’s family, saying they deserved the truth and justice.