Calls Grow for David Umahi's Suspension After Nurse's Death

Political opposition, human rights groups, and youth organizations are demanding the suspension or resignation of David Nweze Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, following the death of 26-year-old nurse and physiotherapist Mary Habila. Habila died on June 27, 2026, at a staff guest house within Umahi's private residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State. Reports from the Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice indicate she was found naked on the floor with blood around her nose and mouth.

While the Ebonyi State Police Command and Minister Umahi both insist on a forensic autopsy to determine the cause of death, Habila's father, Tanko Habila Wisdom, has filed a court affidavit rejecting the procedure on cultural grounds and requesting the police terminate their investigation. The police maintain the examination is essential due to the "sensitive nature of the case" and the lack of prior evidence of illness.

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria issued a seven-day ultimatum to the federal government, threatening nationwide protests in Abuja, Kaduna, and Ebonyi if Umahi is not suspended. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress have also called for Umahi's removal, alleging that President Bola Tinubu's administration is shielding senior officials from accountability. Atiku further demanded the probe be transferred from Ebonyi State to Force Headquarters in Abuja to ensure impartiality, as Umahi is a former governor of Ebonyi.

Umahi has denied wrongdoing, stating Habila had a history of medical challenges. He formally requested through his legal team that the police not release the body to the next of kin until a forensic autopsy is completed.