The Nigerian Women International Alliance (NWIA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure an independent, transparent and credible investigation into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila, whose reported death at the residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has generated widespread public concern.
In an open letter dated July 13, 2026, the organisation urged the Federal Government to allow the investigation to proceed without interference in order to strengthen public confidence in the nation’s justice system.
The letter was jointly signed by the President of the alliance, Mrs. Omolara Abike, the Vice President, Mrs. Ogonna Chiedum, and the Secretary, Dr. Mariam Adeosun.
According to the group, its call for an independent investigation should not be interpreted as an allegation of wrongdoing against any individual, stressing that every Nigerian is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence and the protection of due process.
“The reported death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist, at the residence of the Honourable Minister of Works has generated significant public concern and deserves a thorough, independent, professional and transparent investigation,” the organisation stated.
The alliance maintained that only a credible and impartial investigation would establish the facts surrounding the incident and reassure the public that justice is being pursued without fear or favour.
The call comes amid growing public interest in the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death, with several civil society organisations and concerned Nigerians urging investigators to conduct a transparent inquiry and make their findings public.
Senator David Umahi has previously denied any wrongdoing and has publicly called for a thorough investigation, including an autopsy with the consent of the deceased’s family.
As of the time of filing this report, relevant authorities had yet to release the outcome of ongoing investigations into the incident.
