The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has given the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, a seven-day ultimatum to resign over the death of 26-year-old physiotherapist Mary Habila.
The group said the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death should be independently investigated, adding that it believes the minister should step aside while investigations are conducted.
The NYCN, in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its National President, Isah Abubakar, also called for Umahi’s suspension from office and urged the Nigeria Police Force to invite him for questioning as part of its investigation.
The NYCN warned that it would embark on nationwide protests if the Federal Government failed to act within seven days, describing its demands as “non-negotiable.”
According to Abubakar, the group was acting in solidarity with civil society organisations and called for an independent and transparent autopsy to determine the cause of Habila’s death.
“While we acknowledge the Minister’s recent public statements demanding an autopsy, we believe any investigation should be conducted independently and transparently,” Abubakar said.
The group also called for an independent autopsy, saying it should establish the cause of death and examine any relevant medical or forensic evidence.
The NYCN said it was concerned about the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death and urged the authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
Abubakar said reports in the public domain indicated that Habila died at Umahi’s private residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State, and noted that various allegations circulating on social media and other platforms should be verified through a lawful investigation rather than speculation.
According to the group, the circumstances surrounding the incident warrant a transparent criminal investigation.
“A death occurring in the residence of a public office holder should be thoroughly investigated in line with the law to establish the facts,” Abubakar said.
The group urged the authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted without interference and in accordance with due process.
It further warned that it would mobilise protests in major cities if the Federal Government failed to suspend the minister and commence what it described as a credible investigation.
“If the Federal Government fails to suspend Senator Dave Umahi and initiate what we consider a credible investigation within the next seven days, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, alongside allied civil society organisations and youth groups, will organise nationwide protests,” the statement said.
The NYCN maintained that the matter should be thoroughly investigated and that anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law.