By Nkechinyere Ewa, Abakaliki
The people of Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have alleged the politicisation and sensationalisation of the death of Miss Mary Habila, a nurse attached to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, warning against attempts to exploit the tragedy for political, sectional or personal interests.
The community called on the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation into the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death, insisting that the outcome should be guided strictly by evidence, professionalism and the findings of an independent autopsy.
In a statement signed by the National President of the Uburu community, Nicholas Odi, the community extended condolences to Habila’s family, the management, staff and students of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, and the people of Kaduna State over what it described as a painful loss.
The statement said the community had followed statements by the bereaved family, the Nigeria Police Force, the Minister of Works and media reports on the incident before taking its position.
It expressed support for Senator Umahi’s call for an independent autopsy to establish the actual cause of Habila’s death.
“We fully support the call by the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi, for a comprehensive, transparent and independent autopsy to scientifically establish the actual cause of Miss Mary Habila’s death. We believe that only an objective medical examination can provide clarity, dispel speculation and ensure justice for all concerned,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the family’s initial reluctance to permit an autopsy, the community said the overriding public interest made the procedure necessary.
“While respecting the wishes of the bereaved family to allow their daughter to rest in peace, we believe that the overriding public interest and the need to establish the truth make an independent autopsy both necessary and appropriate.”
The community condemned what it described as attempts to politicise the incident.
“We strongly condemn the politicisation and sensationalisation of this unfortunate incident. The death of a young Nigerian should not be exploited for political, sectional or personal interests. We urge individuals and groups to refrain from inflammatory statements capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations.”
The statement also defended the attachment of medical personnel to the Minister of Works, saying it was a standard administrative arrangement for senior public office holders.
“By the demanding nature of his constitutional responsibilities and extensive public engagements across the country, it is entirely appropriate for the Honourable Minister of Works to have qualified medical and health personnel attached to his official team as first responders. This is a standard administrative and security arrangement and should not be misconstrued or used as a basis for unfounded allegations.”
The community further clarified that Habila resided in official staff quarters provided by the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, warning against drawing conclusions not supported by evidence.
Calling for professionalism in the investigation, the statement urged the police and other relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation, guided solely by evidence, professionalism and the findings of the autopsy.”
The community reaffirmed its support for Senator Umahi while cautioning against what it described as trial by media.
“The Uburu Ancient Kingdom stands firmly with its illustrious son, the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi. We reject attempts to tarnish his reputation through trial by media or unsubstantiated allegations while investigations are ongoing.
“At the same time, we reaffirm our commitment to truth, justice, accountability and the rule of law. We are confident that the outcome of the autopsy and the ongoing investigation will establish the facts.”