A northern women advocacy group, the Arewa Women Forum for Justice and Good Governance, has petitioned the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), calling for an independent investigation into the death of Mary Habila at the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
In the petition signed by the group’s founder, Aisha Bada, and addressed to the UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, the organisation urged the international body and relevant Nigerian authorities to support a transparent, impartial and comprehensive probe into the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
The group argued that an independent investigation was necessary to establish the facts, ensure accountability and restore public confidence in the justice process.
According to the petition, Habila died under circumstances that have generated widespread public concern, making it imperative for investigators to rely on forensic evidence and due process in determining the cause of her death.
The forum also called for investigators to examine all relevant allegations and circumstances linked to the case, insisting that the probe should be guided solely by credible evidence and the rule of law.
Among its recommendations, the group requested the establishment of an independent investigative panel involving relevant Nigerian agencies and, where necessary, international observers.
It also demanded a thorough forensic examination, including an autopsy, toxicology tests and other scientific analyses, as well as protection for witnesses and members of Habila’s family.
The petition further urged authorities to prosecute anyone found culpable after a lawful and impartial investigation.
Copies of the petition were forwarded to UN Women in Nigeria, the African Union Commission, the ECOWAS Commission, the National Human Rights Commission, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services and the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The petition comes as police continue investigations into Habila’s death after she was reportedly brought dead to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, Uburu, on June 27.
The Ebonyi State Police Command has maintained that a forensic autopsy is essential to determine the exact cause of death, although the deceased’s family has reportedly objected to the procedure on cultural grounds.
Umahi has consistently denied any wrongdoing, describing Habila as “like a daughter.”
He has also requested that the investigation be transferred to Abuja and has insisted that a forensic autopsy be conducted before her remains are released for burial.
