The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal Government to launch an independent investigation into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila, who was found dead at the Ebonyi residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC also asked Umahi to step aside while the investigation is ongoing.
The party said the death of a citizen inside the home of a serving minister is a serious matter that requires transparency and accountability. It added that questions about why Habila was at the residence and what led to her death have not been answered.
The statement said: “We therefore call for an independent investigation that is completely removed from the control or influence of the Executive.”
The party also demanded that the inquiry include “a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of Ms Habila’s death and a public report of its findings.”
According to the ADC, an investigation carried out outside the influence of the Executive is the only way to establish the facts and restore public confidence.
The opposition party accused the Tinubu administration of protecting top government officials from proper scrutiny whenever controversies arise.
Abdullahi said: “The Tinubu administration appears more eager to defend reputations than to establish facts and submit to accountability.”
The ADC insisted that Umahi should temporarily leave office while the investigation is conducted.
It stated: “The least that should be expected is that the Minister, namely Senator David Umahi, should immediately step aside from office pending the conclusion of an independent investigation.”
The party warned that failure to ensure accountability would strengthen public belief that senior government officials are shielded from investigation. It also expressed condolences to Habila’s family and called for a transparent investigation, with the findings made public.
Habila’s death has drawn national attention after reports said she died under unclear circumstances at Umahi’s residence in Ebonyi State.
The Ebonyi State Police Command has transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), while the cause of her death is yet to be confirmed.
Umahi has denied any wrongdoing and said there was no attempt to cover up the incident.
He explained that Habila was among medical personnel attached to the Federal Ministry of Works and said he advised her family to approve an autopsy to determine the cause of her death.
Opposition parties and civil society groups have also called for an independent investigation.