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Felix Uka
A Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy Senate President, Chief Emma Igwe, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s reported call for sanctions against the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, over the death of Miss Mary Habila, describing the position as premature while investigations are still ongoing.
In a statement, Igwe said Atiku’s call for the minister’s suspension amounted to “putting the cart before the horse,” arguing that it was inappropriate to recommend sanctions before the relevant authorities had concluded their investigations.
He acknowledged that every Nigerian has the right to demand a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into Habila’s death but maintained that conclusions should not be drawn before the facts are established.
“The rule of law requires that investigations precede judgments, evidence precede accusations, and due process prevail over public speculation,” Igwe said. “To call for the suspension of a public official before any investigative findings have been made risks undermining the very principles of justice and fairness that we all seek to uphold.”
According to him, the political reactions surrounding the incident, including Atiku’s statement and comments by other opposition figures, sought to indict the Minister of Works before the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
Igwe further stated that Umahi had publicly expressed support for a comprehensive investigation into the matter and had called for an autopsy to determine the actual cause of Habila’s death.
He added that the minister had also pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
He stressed that the investigation remains the responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities, urging them to carry out their constitutional duties independently and without political interference.
The aide argued that any call for the minister to step aside should be based on established facts, due process and the law, rather than speculation or public pressure.
He appealed to political leaders, civil society organisations, the media and members of the public to avoid making statements that could prejudice the ongoing investigation.
“My thoughts remain with the Habila family, and we hope that the investigation will establish the facts promptly so that justice is done and is seen to be done,” he said.