The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) USA has expressed shock over what it described as the slow pace of investigations into the suspicious death of Mary Habila, calling on the Nigerian authorities to immediately launch a comprehensive and independent forensic investigation.
In a press statement issued on Friday, the Pro-democracy Action Group demanded that security agencies conduct a thorough forensic examination, including a professional autopsy, to establish the true circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.
COPDEM USA stated that only a transparent, impartial, and scientifically driven investigation would restore public confidence and ensure that justice is served.
The organisation further issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and relevant law enforcement agencies to commence a credible investigation. It warned that failure to act within the stipulated period would trigger nationwide and international peaceful protests immediately after the ultimatum expires, without further notice.
Describing the incident as one of the many unresolved cases of alleged injustice in Nigeria, COPDEM USA called on civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and all voices of conscience to demand an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding reports relating to Mary Habila’s death.
The group also called on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to resign from office without further delay to allow what it described as an unhindered and transparent investigation.
According to COPDEM USA, in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and other established democracies, public officials often step aside or resign while investigations into serious allegations are ongoing in order to protect the integrity of the investigative process and maintain public confidence in government.
The organisation argued that David Umahi should not wait until widespread public protests demand his resignation, insisting that voluntarily stepping down would demonstrate respect for accountability and the rule of law while investigations continue.
COPDEM USA maintained that accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law remain essential to strengthening public trust in Nigeria’s justice system and urged the authorities to ensure that all relevant facts surrounding the case are established and made public.
