BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Southern Kaduna Peoples’ United Associations (SOKAPU) Youth Wing has called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Ebonyi State Police Command to conduct a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Miss Mary Habila.
In a statement signed by its National Youth Leader, Solomon Simon, the group said the death of the young woman had left her family, community and many Nigerians seeking answers, stressing that justice must be pursued without fear or favour.
The youth wing extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, praying for God to grant them the strength to bear the loss and for the repose of Mary’s soul.
The association said its intervention should not be interpreted as an attempt to politicise the incident or prejudge anyone, maintaining that its position was based solely on the need to uphold justice, human dignity and the rule of law.
According to the group, it had followed public statements issued by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, as well as media reports and updates on the ongoing police investigation, noting that conflicting accounts of the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death now exist in the public domain.
“It is neither our responsibility nor our intention to determine which account is accurate. That responsibility rests solely with the relevant law enforcement authorities charged with uncovering the truth through a credible and impartial investigation,” the statement said.
It added that conflicting narratives should reinforce, rather than replace, a thorough investigation capable of establishing the facts.
The association urged investigators to carry out their assignment professionally, transparently and without interference or undue influence, while ensuring that the deceased’s family is kept informed of significant developments in accordance with the law.
It further called for the findings of the investigation to be made public and insisted that anyone found culpable after due investigation should face the full weight of the law, irrespective of status or office.
While acknowledging reports regarding the family’s position on further forensic procedures, SOKAPU encouraged all parties to cooperate with lawful investigative processes capable of establishing the truth, while respecting the dignity and emotions of the bereaved family.
The youth wing also appealed to the Federal Government to allow relevant agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibilities independently and professionally, saying public confidence is strengthened when justice is seen to be done.
It equally urged journalists to prioritise verified facts over speculation in reporting developments surrounding the case and called on the people of Southern Kaduna to remain calm, exercise restraint and continue to pursue justice through peaceful and lawful means.
The group maintained that the matter goes beyond any individual or public official, saying the central issue is ensuring that the truth is established and justice is served for the deceased and her family.
