Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged the Federal Government to require Minister of Works Dave Umahi to step aside from his post. This action follows the death of Mary Habila, a staff member who passed away at Umahi’s residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State, on June 27, 2026.
In an official statement, Atiku expressed concern regarding the handling of the investigation. He noted that the inquiry has remained under the jurisdiction of the Ebonyi State Police Command, where the Minister previously held the position of governor. To ensure impartiality, Atiku requested that the case be transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Highlighting the lack of an autopsy, Atiku stated that President Bola Tinubu should mandate the Minister’s temporary withdrawal to protect the integrity of the inquiry. He emphasized that this measure is not an accusation of guilt, but a necessary standard of accountability to maintain public trust in the democratic process.
