Magnus Aluma
The National Youth Council Of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State chapter, has urged Nigerians to refrain from further attack on the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, over the death of Miss Mary Habila, insisting that only a transparent and impartial investigation can establish the facts surrounding the incident.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Council yesterday and made available to journalists in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.
The statement, which was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Council in Ebonyi State, Douglas Ochishi, and the Publicity Secretary, Ikechukwu Ali, said the calls by the Northern Youths Council of Nigeria for Umahi’s resignation and suspension was premature and would undermine the ongoing investigations into the ugly incident.
The Youth Body expressed sadness over the death of Miss Mary Habila, and extended its condolences to her family, friends and loved ones, and prayed God to grant them the strength to bear the loss.
According to the statement, “we received the news of Miss Mary Habila’s death with profound shock and sadness. On behalf of the youths of Ebonyi State, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult period.”
The Group commended the Works Minister, Umahi, for instructing that a post-mortem examination, including a forensic autopsy be carried out, to truly establish the real cause of Mary Habila’s death.
It advised that Police and other relevant security agencies, including medical authorities should be allowed to conduct their investigations professionally, impartially and without external interference, to ensure that justice is d delivered.
It also stressed that it was wrong to indict or condemn any individual before credible facts are established, at the end of investigations.
The Council also observed that calls for the minister’s resignation are political and aimed at tarnishing the reputation of a serving federal minister who has distinguished himself through infrastructure development and public service.
The statement further reads: “the NYCN Ebonyi State Chapter will not fold its hands and watch one of Ebonyi State’s illustrious sons be subjected to public condemnation without credible evidence or the outcome of lawful investigations. So, we appeal to youth organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation or creating unnecessary tension.”
The youth group urged social media handlers to avoid misleading and speculative narratives, adding that justice must be anchored on facts, credible evidence and outcome of lawful investigations.
The NYCN, reiterated its commitment to justice, accountability and the rule of law and said it was confident that the relevant authorities would carry out their duties diligently and transparently to establish the truth and ensure justice for all parties.
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