Group urges end to media trial over Mary Habila’s death

The Transparency and Accountability Development Initiative (TADI) has urged Nigerians, media organisations and public commentators to desist from what it described as the ongoing media trial over the reported death of Mary Habila, insisting that only the outcome of a thorough investigation should determine the facts surrounding the incident.

Mary Habila, a physiotherapist attached to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, was reportedly found dead at the residence of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, in Ebonyi State.

In a statement jointly signed by its Executive Director, Yomi David, and Director of Programmes, Tijani Usman Shehu, TADI expressed concern over what it called sensational reporting and unverified public commentary linking the incident to the minister’s residence before the conclusion of investigations.

The group maintained that while the death deserved a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation, it was wrong for individuals and media platforms to present allegations or assumptions as established facts.

According to TADI, Nigeria’s constitutional democracy is anchored on the principle that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, warning that trial by media undermines due process, damages reputations and could compromise ongoing investigations.

“TADI strongly condemns the increasing trend of convicting individuals in the court of public opinion. Such practices could influence witnesses, erode public confidence in the justice system and prejudice the outcome of official inquiries,” the statement said.

The organisation called on journalists, bloggers, political actors, commentators and social media influencers to uphold professional ethics by relying on verified facts and credible evidence instead of speculation and sensationalism.

It also urged security and investigative agencies to conduct an independent, timely and evidence-based investigation into the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death, stressing that any conclusions should be based on forensic evidence, witness testimony and the provisions of the law.

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TADI clarified that its intervention should not be interpreted as an attempt to shield anyone from accountability, noting that anyone found culpable after a lawful investigation should face the full weight of the law.

“If any person is found culpable following a lawful investigation, the law should take its full course without fear or favour. However, if allegations are found to be false or unsupported by evidence, those responsible for spreading misinformation should also be held accountable,” it added.

The group also faulted a reported multi-billion-naira lawsuit filed by the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), describing the legal action as premature while investigations are still ongoing.

According to TADI, the autopsy report has yet to be released, no criminal offence has been officially established by the authorities and there has been no formal complaint from the deceased’s family.

It argued that instituting legal action under such circumstances could be perceived as an attempt to exert undue pressure on the investigative process.

The organisation further reminded media organisations and members of the public that while freedom of expression and press freedom are guaranteed under the Constitution, such rights must be exercised responsibly.

It warned that publishing or circulating false, malicious, defamatory or unsubstantiated claims as facts could expose those responsible to legal consequences.

TADI therefore appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and allow investigators to conclude their work without interference.

“Our democracy cannot thrive where public sentiment replaces evidence or where media narratives substitute for criminal investigations. The nation deserves truth, not rumours; evidence, not speculation; and justice, not media verdicts,” the statement added.