Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a staff member who died at the residence of Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State.
In a statement shared on Thursday, Dalung said the issue goes beyond individuals and concerns the credibility of public institutions and accountability.
He raised questions about Habila’s employment status, noting reports that she served as Umahi’s personal nurse. Dalung asked whether she was employed by the Federal Government and, if so, under what arrangement she was assigned to the minister.
“If she was a public employee, Nigerians deserve to know whether she was officially posted, seconded, or privately engaged,” he said, describing the concerns as matters of public interest.
Dalung also referenced an affidavit reportedly sworn by Habila’s father indicating the family did not wish to pursue further investigation. While acknowledging the family’s position, he stressed that criminal investigations are conducted on behalf of the state, not individuals.
“Unexplained deaths remain matters of public concern, especially where there are unanswered questions,” he said.
He added that if any wrongdoing is established, the law should take its course regardless of influence or pressure.
Habila, who worked with the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and was on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, died on June 27, 2026, at a building within the minister’s residence in Uburu.
Umahi has requested a police investigation, including an autopsy by forensic experts, and asked that her remains not be released until inquiries are concluded.
Dalung said only an independent probe would resolve public concerns and end speculation.
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