The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to step aside pending an independent investigation into the death of Mary Habila, who reportedly died at his residence.

The demand was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

According to the ADC, the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death have generated public concern and require a transparent, impartial investigation to establish the facts and restore public confidence.

The party also called for a full autopsy and the public release of the investigation’s findings, insisting that the probe should be conducted independently of the Federal Government and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Every Nigerian life matters. But when a citizen dies in the home of a serving cabinet minister, the matter immediately transcends private tragedy and becomes a question of public accountability. The only acceptable response in a constitutional democracy is a thorough, transparent and independent investigation that commands public confidence,” the statement read.

The ADC urged investigators to clarify the circumstances of Habila’s presence at the minister’s residence, the events leading to her death, and the outcome of ongoing inquiries.

The opposition party further alleged that the President Bola Tinubu administration had consistently shielded senior government officials facing allegations, a development it said had weakened public confidence in accountability.

It maintained that Umahi should temporarily vacate office to allow for an impartial investigation.

The party also extended its condolences to Habila’s family, stressing that only a credible and transparent investigation would determine the true circumstances surrounding her death.