Atiku: Nigerians Will Lose Confidence If Umahi Stays

Atiku Abubakar, the president of the African Democratic Congress, expressed that Nigerians will lose confidence in the government if Governor Dave Umahi does not resign following the death of Mary Habila, a staff member. In a statement made on Thursday, Atiku criticized the handling of the situation and demanded a transparent and independent investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Habila's death.

He noted that no autopsy had been conducted, and the case should be transferred to the Abuja headquarters of the police for urgent action. Atiku emphasized that the federal government, led by President Bola Tinubu, should ensure that Umahi steps aside immediately pending the conclusion of the investigation.

He stated that failing to adhere to minimum standards of public accountability would seriously undermine democracy and public confidence in the investigation. The incident occurred on June 27, 2026, in Southern Kaduna, within Umahi's residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.