A women group in Ebonyi State, Ohanivo Women Association (OWA), has called for calm by the public on the death of Miss Mary Habila, a Nurse attached to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi who died at the staff quarters of the Minister’s residence where she resided with other workers.

The women also called for restraint by the public on unverified allegations against anyone in the incident.

In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Favour Okorie, Ohanivo women urged the public to show compassion in the unfortunate incident rather than deepening the deceased family’s grief, undermine their right to mourn in peace and inflaming public emotions

They further urged the public respect the wishes and position of the bereaved family by allowing them the privacy, dignity, and peace they deserve in the mourning of their beloved daughter.

The women group supported autopsy on the body of the deceased as canvassed by the Minister of Works to unravel the cause of her death.

“Having carefully followed the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the death of Miss Mary Habila, expresses its heartfelt condolences to her parents, family, friends, and all those affected by this painful loss. We pray that Almighty God grants the family the strength, comfort, and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

“The Association notes with concern the various reports, public reactions, and differing opinions that have emerged following this unfortunate incident. We believe that moments of grief require compassion, restraint.

“In the interest of justice, fairness, and due process, we commend the Honourable Minister of Works, our illustrious son and father, Senator Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, for reiterating his position that a comprehensive autopsy should be conducted to establish the true cause of Miss Mary Habila’s death.

“We further note that, following the confirmation of her death, the Honourable Minister promptly contacted the Nigerian Police in accordance with the law, thereby enabling the appropriate authorities to commence the necessary investigation.

“The Association also acknowledges reports that the parents of the deceased have expressed their desire for the body of their daughter to be released to them.

“We recognize that no parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child, and we deeply sympathize with the family during this period of immense sorrow.

“As mothers who understand the depth of a parent’s grief, OHANIVO WOMEN ASSOCIATION respectfully appeals to the general public, community leaders, stakeholders, the media, and all concerned persons to respect the wishes and position of the bereaved family by allowing them the privacy, dignity, and peace they deserve as they mourn their beloved daughter.

“We urge everyone to refrain from actions, comments, speculation, or interference that may further deepen the family’s grief, inflame public emotions, or undermine their right to mourn in peace.

“Finally, we encourage all well-meaning Nigerians to remain peaceful and continue to pray for the peaceful repose of the soul of Miss Mary Habila and for God’s comfort and strength upon her family during this difficult time. May the soul of Miss Mary Habila rest in perfect peace”, the women said.