ADC demands independent probe into death of aide linked to minister

By Lateef Ibrahim

The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an independent investigation into the death of Ms. Mary Habila, insisting that the circumstances surrounding her death have become a matter of public accountability.

In a statement by the national publicity secretary of the party, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC argued that the only appropriate response in a constitutional democracy is a transparent and independent inquiry capable of commanding public confidence.

It said the explanations provided by authorities so far had failed to address key questions surrounding the incident, including the nature of Habila’s official assignment, why she was staying at the minister’s private residence, the circumstances that led to her death, and the findings of investigators.

According to the party, these questions can only be answered through evidence-based investigations rather than official assurances.

The statement called for a probe independent of the executive arm of government, urging authorities to conduct a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of death and make the findings public.

It maintained that such a process was necessary to ensure justice is served and seen to have been served, warning that anything short of an independent investigation could fuel public suspicion and weaken confidence in state institutions.

The party further alleged that the incident reflects what it described as a recurring pattern in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, accusing the government of shielding public officials whenever allegations arise instead of encouraging independent scrutiny.

It claimed that several presidential appointees have remained in office despite controversies surrounding them, arguing that the administration appears more focused on protecting reputations than establishing the facts and ensuring accountability.