Tinubu Supports Umahi Amid Outrage Over Staff Death

Minister of Works David Umahi disclosed that President Bola Tinubu advised him to stay focused on his responsibilities after the death of his staff member, Mary Habila, at his private residence in Ebonyi State. This incident sparked public outrage and demands for Umahi's removal from office.

In a video following his birthday on July 25, Umahi expressed surprise that some individuals politicized the tragedy, suggesting that the President should dismiss him. He questioned the rationale behind such calls, emphasizing that losing a staff member should not warrant dismissal.

Tinubu, instead of agreeing to the demands, encouraged Umahi to continue his work, specifically instructing him to "go and build more roads." Umahi also canceled his birthday celebrations due to mourning Habila's death and that of an uncle. He accused some individuals of attempting to exploit the situation for political gain and firmly stated that neither he nor his family was involved in Habila's death.

The family of Habila consented to a forensic autopsy, requesting the investigation be transferred to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja for transparency.