Growing demands for transparency and accountability are placing Nigeria under renewed public scrutiny after the death of a young nurse at the residence of the country’s Minister of Works sparked nationwide debate and attracted wider international attention.
Former Nigerian Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has called for an independent, transparent and credible investigation into the death of Mary Habila, arguing that the case is no longer a private matter but one that directly concerns public trust in Nigeria’s justice system and state institutions.
Habila reportedly died on June 27, 2026, at a building within the residence of Minister of Works David Umahi in Uburu, Ebonyi State. She was employed by the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and was serving on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works.
Dalung questioned the circumstances surrounding Habila’s assignment, asking whether she had been officially deployed as the minister’s personal nurse under a lawful government arrangement. He said Nigerians deserve clear answers regarding her employment status, the legality of her assignment and the events leading to her death.
The former minister also raised concerns over reports that Habila’s father signed an affidavit indicating the family no longer wished to pursue further investigations. While acknowledging the family’s rights, Dalung stressed that unexplained deaths remain matters of public interest because criminal investigations are conducted on behalf of society rather than individual families.
He maintained that only an independent investigation, free from political influence, can establish the facts, restore confidence in public institutions and demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law.
The case has continued to generate reactions from political leaders, civil society organisations and advocacy groups, many of whom have also demanded a transparent probe, saying the findings should be made public to eliminate speculation and strengthen confidence in the country’s justice system.
Minister David Umahi has already requested a forensic autopsy by the Nigeria Police Force to determine the exact cause of Habila’s death and directed that her remains should not be released until investigations are concluded.
