Mary Habilia: CSOs suspend planned protest against Umahi

The leadership of Gender for Social Justice and Good Governance (GFSJGG), alongside 300 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and partner groups, have formally suspended its planned nationwide protest over the death of Miss Mary Habila, reaffirming its commitment to due process, the rule of law and the constitutional presumption of innocence as well as expressed its confidence in the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi.

Addressing journalists on behalf of the coalition in Abuja on Monday, Dr Jumoke Adebiyi, National Coordinator, Gender for Social Justice and Good Governance (GFSJGG) and Comrade Amina Danjuma, National Publicity Secretary, Gender for Social Justice and Good Governance (GFSJGG) explained that its earlier decision to mobilise for a peaceful protest was based on the information available at the time and its longstanding commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of human rights.

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The Coalition said after conducting an independent fact-finding exercise, it had reached a different conclusion and had consequently cancelled the demonstrations earlier scheduled for 23 and 24 July 2026.

According to the coalition, “GFSJGG and its partners have always been guided by facts rather than emotions, evidence rather than speculation, and justice rather than prejudice.”

The coalition disclosed that its decision followed the outcome of an independent investigation conducted by GFSJGG and its partners, which included an on-the-spot assessment in Uburu, Ebonyi State, consultations at the hospital, engagements with critical stakeholders and a review of additional information that emerged after its initial statement.

Based on its findings, the group stated that it found no basis to hold the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, responsible for the unfortunate incident.

It further stated that its investigation revealed that the deceased had underlying medical conditions which may have contributed to her untimely death.

The coalition also noted that Senator Umahi had consistently called for an autopsy, describing the Minister’s position as a demonstration of his willingness to subject the matter to transparent investigation.

While condemning what it described as premature public judgment, the coalition stressed that no Nigerian should be subjected to media conviction before the conclusion of lawful investigations.

“No Nigerian, regardless of status or public office, should be subjected to public condemnation before the conclusion of lawful investigations. We believe that the constitutional presumption of innocence must apply equally to every citizen,” the statement read.

The organisations urged Nigerians to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities professionally and without external pressure capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations.

They equally called on citizens to desist from trial by media and allow investigative authorities to conclude their work in accordance with the law.

The coalition further acknowledged Senator Umahi’s record in public service, particularly his stewardship of the Federal Ministry of Works.

According to the organisations, the Minister has overseen significant progress on several strategic federal road and bridge projects across the country, contributing to national development, economic growth and improved transportation infrastructure.

“While no public office holder is above the law, neither should years of public service be disregarded on the basis of allegations that remain under investigation,” the coalition stated.

Consequently, GFSJGG and its partners maintained that there was no justification for continued calls for the Minister’s resignation in the absence of any official finding establishing wrongdoing.

The coalition therefore announced the immediate cancellation of its planned protest and directed all members, partner organisations, supporters and the general public to disregard the earlier mobilisation notice.

Reaffirming its core values, the organisations stated that they remain committed to promoting justice, transparency, accountability, good governance and the rule of law, noting that these principles equally demand fairness, objectivity and respect for due process.

The coalition also commended security agencies for their ongoing investigation and urged them to conclude the matter diligently, professionally and without fear or favour.

Extending condolences to the bereaved family, the organisations described the loss of Miss Mary Habila as deeply tragic and appealed to political actors and other interested parties not to exploit the incident for partisan purposes.

“We deeply commiserate with the family on the painful loss of their daughter in the prime of her life. Those seeking to exploit this emotional and sensitive matter for political purposes should desist and respect the family’s desire to allow their daughter to rest in peace,” the coalition stated.

The organisations appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, reject inflammatory narratives and allow the nation’s justice institutions to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without interference.