The Transparency and Accountability Development Initiative (TADI) has called on Nigerians, media organisations, and public commentators to refrain from speculative reporting and public condemnation over the reported death of Mary Habila, insisting that only a thorough investigation should determine the facts surrounding the incident.

Recall that Mary Habila, a Physiotherapist attached to the David Umahi Teaching Hospital was reportedly found dead in Ebonyi State at the residence of Engr. David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works.

In a statement jointly signed by its Executive Director, Yomi David, and Director of Programmes, Tijani Usman Shehu, the organisation expressed concern over the growing sensationalism and unverified public commentary linking the incident to the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

According to TADI, while the reported death of Mary Habila warrants a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation, it is inappropriate for individuals or media platforms to present allegations or assumptions as established facts before law enforcement agencies complete their investigations.

The group stressed that Nigeria’s constitutional democracy is founded on the principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, warning that media trials undermine due process, damage reputations, and risk compromising ongoing investigations.

“TADI strongly condemns the increasing trend of convicting individuals in the court of public opinion. Such practices could influence witnesses, erode public confidence in the justice system, and prejudice the outcome of official inquiries”, the group noted.

The organization urged journalists, political actors, bloggers, commentators, and social media influencers to uphold professional standards by relying on verified facts and credible evidence rather than speculation or sensationalism.

It also called on relevant security and investigative agencies to carry out an independent, timely, and evidence-based investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s reported death, noting that any conclusions should be based on forensic evidence, witness testimony, and applicable laws.

Clarifying its position, TADI said it was neither defending wrongdoing nor attempting to shield anyone from accountability. Rather, it maintained that no individual should be prejudged while investigations remain ongoing.

“If any person is found culpable following a lawful investigation, the law should take its full course without fear or favour. However, if allegations are found to be false or unsupported by evidence, those responsible for spreading misinformation should also be held accountable”, the statement added.

The group also criticised a recent lawsuit reportedly filed by the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), describing the legal action as premature and unnecessary.

According to TADI, “the circumstances surrounding the case remain under investigation, the autopsy report has yet to be made public, no criminal offence has been officially established by the state, and there has been no formal complaint from the deceased’s family”.

The group also questioned the legal and moral basis of the reported multi billion naira suit under such circumstances, suggesting that the action could be perceived as an attempt to exert undue pressure while investigations are still in progress.

TADI further reminded media organisations and members of the public that although freedom of expression and press freedom are constitutionally guaranteed, those rights carry corresponding responsibilities.

“Let us not forget that the publication or dissemination of false, malicious, defamatory, or unsubstantiated claims presented as facts without credible evidence could expose those responsible to legal consequences”, the statement read.

TADI concluded by urging Nigerians to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and allow investigative authorities to complete their work without interference.

“Our democracy cannot thrive where public sentiment replaces evidence or where media narratives substitute for criminal investigations. The nation deserves truth, not rumours; evidence, not speculation; and justice, not media verdicts.”