CSOs Cancel Protest Against Umahi Following Investigation

Civil society organizations (CSOs) have formally suspended a planned nationwide protest against Engr David Umahi, the Minister of Works, in light of the death of Mary Habilia. The decision was announced by Dr. Jumok Adebiyi, the National Coordinator of the Gender, Social Justice, Good Governance Coalition (GFSJGG), during a press briefing in Abuja.

The coalition conducted an independent investigation, which included consultations and assessments in Ebonyi State, and found no basis to hold Umahi accountable for Habilia's death. The coalition emphasized the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence, urging Nigerians to allow law enforcement agencies to conduct their investigations without external pressure.

They acknowledged Umahi's public service record and called for a respectful approach to the tragic incident, appealing to political actors not to exploit the situation for partisan purposes. The protest, originally scheduled for July 23-24, 2026, was canceled as the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to justice and accountability.