Ohanaeze Condemns Politization Of Mary Habila’s Death

By Alex Odeh, Pan Afric Reporters

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has condemned what it describes as the premature politicization of the death of Miss Mary Habila at the staff quarters of the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

It said while every human life is sacred and every death deserves a thorough investigation, it is inappropriate and unacceptable for political actors like Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Northern Youth Forum to rush to conclusions, issue prejudicial judgments, or demand the suspension and resignation of Senator David Umahi before the completion of a transparent investigation by the relevant authorities.

In a statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the Deputy Secretary General, Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa, the
organization specifically rejected Atiku’s call for Umahi’s suspension. describing it as premature, politically motivated, and inconsistent with the principles of justice, fairness, and due process.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo declared that Umahi will not resign as Minister of Works because of what it called politically driven pressure, warning that nobody should intimidate him into abandoning his constitutional responsibilities while investigations are ongoing.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo further expressed concern over what it described as a disturbing pattern of selective outrage in national discourse, where some tragedies receive immediate political condemnation while others are ignored or treated with silence.

The organization recalled the brutal killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu, a Christian student of the Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto, who was murdered by a mob in 2022 following allegations of blasphemy.

Ohanaeze questioned why certain political figures like Atiku Abubakar, who remained silent during that tragedy are now demanding swift political punishment in the case of Mary Habila’s death.

According to Ohanaeze, the sanctity of human life must not be measured by political convenience, ethnic considerations, religious sentiments, or public pressure. Everyone deserves equal dignity, justice, and compassion.

The organization stressed that a nation governed by law cannot operate through social media trials, political accusations, or mob-driven demands for punishment without evidence.

Ohanaeze urged all interested parties to allow the police and relevant investigative authorities to complete their duties without unnecessary interference.

The organization emphasized that the death of Miss Mary Habila remains a painful tragedy that has affected her family, her community, and Umahi, who was her employer and superior.

Ohanaeze extended its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Tanko Habila Wisdom, the father and next-of-kin of late Mary Habila; the Habila family; the people of Southern Kaduna; and Umahi, describing the incident as a heartbreaking occurrence that requires compassion, maturity, and a commitment to discovering the truth.

“The appropriate response to tragedy is mourning, investigation, and justice — not political opportunism. The family of the deceased deserves truth and closure, not a political battle that may distract from the real issues,” Ohanaeze stated.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo noted that Umahi has demonstrated commitment to transparency by supporting the conduct of an autopsy to determine the actual cause of Mary Habila’s death.

The organization acknowledged the position of the deceased’s father, who reportedly expressed reservations about an autopsy based on family traditions, but maintained that establishing the truth through lawful and professional procedures remains essential.

Ohanaeze emphasized that justice requires facts, evidence, and credible investigation rather than assumptions, accusations, or political pressure.

The organization declared that Ndigbo stands firmly on the side of truth, justice, and accountability, regardless of political affiliations or ethnic backgrounds.