The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of University Students (NAUS) have thrown their weight behind the call by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for an autopsy to determine the cause of death Mary Habila, a staff member of the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences (DUFUMS), Uburu, while demanding an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding her demise.

In a joint statement signed by NANS Senate President, Sen. Ibeabuchi Onyia, and NAUS President, Meshach Nwankwo, the student bodies expressed shock over Habila’s death and extended condolences to her family, the Minister of Works and all those affected by the tragedy.

The organisations said available reports indicated that Umahi had consistently insisted on establishing the true cause of Habila’s death and had formally requested an autopsy, a move they described as a demonstration of commitment to justice.

“We commend the Honourable Minister of Works for taking proactive steps to ensure that justice is served and for calling for an autopsy to ascertain the actual cause of Miss Mary Habila’s death,” the statement said.

According to the two students bodies, an affidavit reportedly sworn by Habila’s colleague, Anita Baaki, stated that the deceased was last seen alive after returning from making her hair and had informed her colleague that she intended to take a shower before going to bed.

The student bodies said the affidavit further indicated that after repeated calls went unanswered the following morning, colleagues forced open her room and found her lying on the floor before rushing her to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.

While acknowledging public interest in the case, NANS and NAUS cautioned against what they described as attempts by individuals and groups to exploit the incident for personal or sentimental reasons.

“As bodies committed to justice and fairness, we caution individuals or groups exploiting the situation to suit their sentiments. The law is clear and must be followed strictly without bias or regard for anyone. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” they stated.

The organisations noted that the matter was already before a court and urged Nigerians to allow due process to take its course while awaiting the outcome of an unbiased investigation.

They also commended Umahi’s performance as Minister of Works, citing ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country, and urged him to remain focused on delivering quality infrastructure for Nigerians.

NANS and NAUS reaffirmed their commitment to defending justice, equity and the rights of citizens, pledging to continue speaking for the oppressed and advocating for a fair and accountable system.