The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has given the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, a seven-day ultimatum to resign over the controversial death of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila, warning that it will stage nationwide protests if its demands are not met.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National President, Isah Abubakar, the council also called for Umahi’s immediate suspension from office and urged the Nigeria Police Force to question the minister as part of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
The group maintained that Umahi should not remain in office while questions continue to surround the incident, insisting that the matter requires a transparent and independent criminal investigation.
NYCN further demanded an independent autopsy, monitored by international observers, to determine the exact cause of Habila’s death. According to the group, any investigation conducted under the influence of the minister or within facilities linked to his administration would not inspire public confidence.
Abubakar said the council was disturbed by reports alleging that Habila died inside Umahi’s private residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State, adding that claims circulating in the public space about the circumstances of her death warranted a thorough investigation.
He argued that the death of a young woman under such conditions should automatically trigger an impartial police inquiry, regardless of the status of those involved.
The youth body warned that if the Federal Government fails to suspend the minister and commence what it described as a credible investigation within seven days, it would mobilise protests across Abuja, Kaduna, Ebonyi State and other parts of the country.
According to the council, the planned demonstrations would continue until Umahi either resigns or is removed from office to face investigation.
The ultimatum comes amid growing public calls from youth groups and civil society organisations for an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death. Authorities have yet to issue any official findings on the cause of her death, while calls for a transparent investigation continue to intensify.
