Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has reacted to reports surrounding the death of Mary Habila, the young woman found dead at his private village residence in Ebonyi State, denying any wrongdoing and insisting that misleading narratives are being circulated about the incident.
Responding to the controversy, Umahi explained that the deceased was not unknown to the premises, stating that she had lived in a guest house in Asokoro alongside other workers. He, however, questioned how another person was allegedly linked to his residence.
“She also lived in a guest house in Asokoro where I stay alongside other workers. It gives the impression as if wrong girl was transported to my residence. The lawyers have been briefed and will take on the people that are evil and think they’re fighting for the freedom of the country.”
The minister’s comments come amid growing public scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death. The case has continued to generate debate after activist Charles Ogbu shared an affidavit reportedly signed by the deceased’s father, in which he stated that the family did not wish to pursue further investigation and was not suspecting any foul play. Ogbu argued that the death had already been described as “unnatural” by the Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice and called for a thorough, independent investigation.
Umahi’s latest statement has further fueled discussions online, with many Nigerians insisting that only a transparent investigation can establish the facts surrounding the incident.
Reactions
@CUdeachara: “Well just because you don’t agree with somebody’s politics it’s not enough reason to raise nasty rumors or try to defame the person.”
@obakanyin: “Why is he trying to play victim here, prove your innocence. This is not the time to attack people asking for accountability.”
@ikech28864: “Hearing from him now, I have the feeling I have judged the whole issue with emotion.”
@Jesse_westyy: “Wrong girl was transported to your residence? Go tell that to the court.”
@TooRelatable2u: “Omo he’s saying he doesn’t know about it?”
@Vibesznnz: “But if the case was attached to a poor man omo the guy won’t be talking freely the same way the minister is giving us details online.”
@ObasiPriscillia: “So he is saying she was brought into his resident? He must think we are fools.”
@fon4gud: “This response is not enough. Instead of giving clear answers, he’s trying to shift the narrative and say it’s the wrong girl. There should be a full, independent investigation into how the lady died in his residence. We need transparency and justice for Mary, not excuses.”
