By Hassan Hussain
The Coalition of Civil Societies for Good Governance (CCSGG), in collaboration with the Northern Youth Association of Nigeria (NYAN), has rejected calls for the resignation of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, over the death of Nurse Mary Habila, insisting that due process must be allowed to take its course.
Addressing journalists at a world press conference in Abuja, the National President of NYAN, Comrade Godiya Bogoro, described the demand for the Minister’s resignation as premature, unjustified, and capable of undermining the rule of law.
Comrade Bogoro, while expressing condolences to the family of the late Mary Habila, said the coalition remained committed to justice and accountability but maintained that no individual should be condemned before the conclusion of investigations by relevant authorities.
He stressed that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law, and warned against media trials and campaigns driven by speculation.
The NYAN President noted that while citizens have the constitutional right to freedom of expression, such rights must be exercised responsibly without interfering with ongoing investigations or the administration of justice.
Comrade Bogoro called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security and investigative agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, impartial, and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila.
He urged political groups, civil society organisations, and members of the public to refrain from making inflammatory comments and to allow investigators to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or undue pressure.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, insisting that the tragic death of Mary Habila should not be exploited for political or sectional interests.
It also appealed to Nigerians to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and patient while awaiting the outcome of the investigation, expressing confidence that justice would be served in accordance with the evidence and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
