Late Mary Habila: IYCN calls for thorough, professional, independent, transparent investigation, warns against misinformation, media trials
By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi
The Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria (IYCN), has called upon all relevant investigative authorities to conduct a thorough, professional, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of late Nurse Mary Habila.
The Council made the call in a Press statement signed and issued to Journalists on Sunday by Comr Moses S. Moses, the leader of the Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria.
IYCN suggested that the investigation should be guided exclusively by credible evidence and undertaken without fear, favour, political interference, or improper influence stressing that, “Where criminal liability is established in accordance with the law, those responsible should be held fully accountable, irrespective of their position, status, or influence.”
The statement contained that, “Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria (IYCN) has followed with deep concern the public discussions surrounding the unfortunate death of Miss Mary Habila. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones, and pray that Almighty God grants them strength, comfort, and the grace to endure this profound loss.”
It stated that,”As a national interfaith organization committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, justice, national unity, responsible citizenship, religious harmony, and respect for the rule of law, the Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria believes that moments of national grief should unite rather than divide us.”
IYCN stressed that, “Our shared values, irrespective of faith or ethnicity, compel us to seek truth through lawful means while preserving the integrity of our democratic institutions.”
According to the Council, “We have observed the growing volume of public commentary surrounding this unfortunate incident; the untimely death of Nurse Mary Habila. While public interest in the matter is understandable and the demand for justice is both legitimate and necessary, it is equally important that the distinction between verified facts, allegations, and personal opinions is maintained.”
“In any society governed by the rule of law, criminal responsibility can only be determined through a credible investigation and, where appropriate, judicial proceedings and not through speculation or public sentiment” it added.
According to a report made available by the Federal Ministry of Works, the late Miss Mary Habila had served in the household of the Minister of Works for approximately three years prior to her unfortunate demise.
The report indicated that throughout her period of service, She maintained a cordial and professional working relationship with the Honourable Minister and was widely regarded as a diligent, dedicated, and committed healthcare professional in the discharge of her responsibilities.
The report further stated that she was treated in the same manner as other members of staff, with care and consideration, and that there were no reported incidents suggesting hostility or discriminatory treatment during her employment.
According to report, there is no doubt that the Minister is determined to deliver on his mandate, thus he has always motivated his staff with love and kindness.
While these representations provide useful background to her employment history, they neither determine nor prejudice the outcome of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, which should be allowed to proceed independently, impartially, and in accordance with the law.
“We encourage public officials, political leaders, civil society organizations, faith-based organizations, youth groups, media practitioners, and members of the public to exercise restraint in their public engagements regarding speculations on the unfortunate death of miss Mary Habila,” It added.
According to the Council, “Responsible leadership requires that ongoing investigations are not prejudiced by premature conclusions or inflammatory rhetoric. Public confidence in the justice system is strengthened when institutions are allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities independently and professionally.”
It added, “As an organization founded on the principles of dialogue, reconciliation, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence, the Interfaith Youth Council of Nigeria believes that justice and due process are complementary values. One should never be sacrificed for the other. Justice must be pursued diligently, but it must also be administered fairly, impartially, and in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
It added,”We further appeal to all Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding while allowing the investigative process to run its course. At a time when emotions are understandably high, our collective responsibility is to promote peace, discourage misinformation, and support institutions charged with upholding justice.”
IYCN concluded, “Our thoughts remain with the family of Mary Habila. We pray that the truth is established through a credible process, that justice is done in accordance with the law, and that this tragic incident ultimately strengthens public confidence in Nigeria’s institutions and commitment to equal justice under the law.”
