NANS Slams Northern Youth Council Over Umahi, Warns Against Politicising Mary Habila's Death

.... Questions the rationale behind the Northern Youth Council's seven-day ultimatum asking the minister to step aside despite his willingness to subject the matter to an impartial investigation.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has faulted the Northern Youth Council over its demand for the removal of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, describing the call as misguided and an attempt to exploit the death of Miss Mary Habila for political and personal interests.

NANS, in a statement issued on Thursday by its President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, stated that, while the death of the young woman was tragic and deserved a thorough investigation, it should not be used to fuel what it described as "vendettas and political gains."

The students' body noted that available reports indicate Umahi had consistently called for the actual cause of Habila's death to be established and had formally requested an autopsy, a move it said was reportedly opposed by the deceased's family.

NANS questioned the rationale behind the Northern Youth Council's seven-day ultimatum asking the minister to step aside despite his willingness to subject the matter to an impartial investigation.

According to the association, any group genuinely interested in justice should support efforts to uncover the truth rather than seek punitive action before investigations are concluded.

The association further argued that the council had "misplaced its priorities," insisting that no individual should be condemned on the strength of unverified allegations.

Defending the minister's performance in office, NANS said Umahi had continued to deliver on critical road infrastructure projects across the country and should not be distracted by what it described as unfounded attacks.

The group urged the Northern Youth Council to withdraw its demand for the minister's removal and allow law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations into Habila's death without external pressure.

NANS reaffirmed its commitment to justice, fairness and due process, insisting that the circumstances surrounding the death of the deceased should be established through a transparent and impartial investigation.