The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, has urged Nigerians to refrain from condemning the Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi, over the death of Miss Mary Habila, insisting that only a transparent and impartial investigation can establish the facts surrounding the incident.
The Council, in a press release issued on Thursday in Abakaliki and jointly signed by its Chairman, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, and Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ali Ikechukwu, described recent calls by the Northern Youths Council of Nigeria for Umahi's resignation and suspension as premature and capable of undermining ongoing investigations.
The NYCN expressed sadness over the death of Mary Habila and extended its condolences to her family, friends and loved ones, praying that God grants them the strength to bear the loss and eternal rest to the deceased.
"We received the news of Miss Mary Habila's death with profound shock and sadness. On behalf of the youths of Ebonyi State, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult period," the statement read.
The youth body commended Umahi for publicly supporting a thorough, independent and transparent investigation, including a forensic autopsy, to determine the true circumstances surrounding Habila's death.
According to the Council, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security and medical authorities should be allowed to conduct their investigations professionally, impartially and without external interference to ensure justice is served.
The NYCN maintained that it was wrong to indict or condemn any individual before the conclusion of investigations and the establishment of credible facts.
"It is wrong to indict or condemn any individual before the conclusion of investigations and the establishment of facts," the statement said.
The Council further argued that the calls for the minister's resignation appeared politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing the reputation of a serving federal minister who has distinguished himself through infrastructure development and public service.
"The NYCN Ebonyi State Chapter will not fold its arms and watch one of Ebonyi State's illustrious sons be subjected to public condemnation without credible evidence or the outcome of lawful investigations," it added.
The Council also appealed to youth organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation or creating unnecessary tension.
It cautioned social media users against spreading misinformation, engaging in trial by media or promoting speculative narratives, stressing that justice must be anchored on facts, credible evidence and the outcome of lawful investigations rather than emotions or unverified allegations.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice, accountability and the rule of law, the NYCN expressed confidence that the relevant authorities would carry out their constitutional responsibilities diligently and transparently to establish the truth and ensure justice for all parties.
The Council again sympathised with the family of Mary Habila and expressed hope that the ongoing investigation would provide the truth, justice and closure they deserve.
