Mary Habila: Northern youths give Umahi 7-day resignation ultimatum.

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, demanding his resignation over the death of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila.

In a statement signed by its National President, Isah Abubakar, the group said the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death require an independent investigation. It also called for Umahi’s suspension from office and urged the Nigeria Police Force to invite the minister for questioning as part of the investigation.
The NYCN said it was acting in solidarity with civil society organisations and insisted on an independent and transparent autopsy to determine the exact cause of Habila’s death. While acknowledging Umahi’s public call for an autopsy, the council maintained that any investigation must be carried out independently and without interference.
According to Abubakar, reports in the public domain indicate that Habila died at Umahi’s private residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State. He said the various allegations circulating on social media and other platforms should be verified through a lawful investigation rather than speculation, stressing that a death in the residence of a public office holder warrants a transparent criminal investigation.
The group urged the authorities to ensure that the investigation follows due process and includes a thorough examination of all relevant medical and forensic evidence to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
The NYCN further warned that it would mobilise nationwide protests if the Federal Government fails to suspend the minister and commence what it described as a credible investigation within seven days.
“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 council maintained that the matter must be thoroughly investigated and that anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law.