Sunny Ibeh Jnr Calls on IGP to Take Over Probe 

Publisher  and media executive, Sunny  Ibeh Jnr, has called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to immediately take over the investigation into the death of Mary Habila, insisting that only an independent probe by the Force Headquarters can guarantee justice, ensure transparency, and restore public confidence in the case.

In a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, Ibeh described the circumstances surrounding the 26-year-old’s death as deeply troubling, expressing concern over reports that the investigation is being handled by the Ebonyi State Police Command. He argued that the sensitive nature of the case warrants the direct intervention of the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters to ensure a credible, impartial and transparent investigation.

According to him, the public interest generated by the case and the involvement of the Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi, in public discussions surrounding the matter have heightened the need for an independent investigation that is free from any perception of interference or undue influence.

Ibeh questioned why no visible law enforcement action had been taken despite the intense public scrutiny surrounding the case, noting that many Nigerians believe similar circumstances involving an ordinary citizen would likely have resulted in immediate police action pending the outcome of investigations.

He also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the matter is handled fairly and strictly in accordance with the rule of law, stressing that every Nigerian, regardless of status or public office, should be subject to the same legal process.

The media executive maintained that Nigerians are not asking for anyone to be pronounced guilty without due process but are demanding a thorough, credible and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.

“The questions surrounding this case deserve clear answers. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to have been done,” Ibeh said.

He warned that any attempt to undermine or compromise the investigative process would further erode public confidence in the administration of justice, urging the Nigeria Police Force to act swiftly and transparently.

Mary Habila, was  a 26-year-old physiotherapist, who died under circumstances that remain under investigation after she was found unresponsive at the country home of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, on June 27, 2026.

The incident has generated widespread public interest and intensified calls for a transparent and independent investigation. As of the time of filing this report, the exact cause of Habila’s death had not been officially established, while police investigations were still ongoing and no one had been charged in connection with the case.