The body of 19-year-old Mary Habila was found dead at the residence of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, sparking outrage and demands for a thorough investigation.

Mary Habila, a 19-year-old student, died on June 27, 2026, at the residence of Engr. David Umahi in Uburu, Ebonyi State.

The Northern Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) has called for an independent probe into her death.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, NYAN spokesperson Shuaib Ishaq Yahaya said the investigation must be free from political interference and must examine all available evidence, including forensic reports, medical findings, witness accounts, CCTV footage, and communication records.

The group also called for the post-mortem examination process to be credible, with the outcome commanding public confidence.

‘We note the decision of the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a post-mortem examination on the remains of the late Mary Habila. Given the enormous public interest in this case, the credibility of the post-mortem process is of paramount importance,’ Yahaya said.

David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has explained that Mary Habila was a student at the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu.

However, NYAN said the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death had generated public concern, and every Nigerian deserves a thorough investigation whenever a life is lost under circumstances requiring clarification.

Justice must never depend on social status, political influence, or the office occupied by any individual. The Constitution guarantees equality before the law, and that principle must be demonstrated in this case.’

NYAN also called on human rights organisations, women’s rights groups, youth organisations, and other justice advocates to monitor the investigation closely to ensure that due process is followed.

The group urged Nigerians to remain peaceful while allowing the investigative process to take its course, adding that the family of the deceased deserves answers and closure.

NYAN also called on the management of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, to provide relevant employment records and official documentation relating to Habila’s appointment and alleged secondment.

The case has become a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and equality before the law.

The Northern Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) comprises young people from across the 19 Northern states of Nigeria. They have a strong focus on social justice, education, and economic empowerment.

The group has been critical of the government on several issues, including corruption, poverty, and inequality.

The government has been accused of being slow to respond to the demands of the group and other civil society organisations.

The case of Mary Habila’s death has sparked outrage on social media, with many people calling for justice and accountability.

The hashtag #JusticeForMaryHabila has been trending on Twitter, with several people demanding a thorough investigation into her death.

Mary Habila’s death is a reminder of the high rate of youth mortality in Nigeria, where many young people die under unclear circumstances.