Nigeria’s political and civic space has been shaken by the circulation of an alleged audio recording of Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi threatening Samuel Tabara Kato, president of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), over a lawsuit filed in connection with the controversial death of 26‑year‑old nurse Mary Habila.
The recording was shared online by activist Towolawi Jamiu and later referenced in a SOKAPU press conference.
It has intensified scrutiny of the minister’s conduct and reignited debate about accountability in high‑profile cases involving public officials.
The Alleged Exchange
According to the transcript of the video released by SOKAPU, Umahi called Tabara via WhatsApp on July 28, 2026, and said:
“I am David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works. I saw your suit against me.
“You need money, right?
“I will teach you a lesson of your life so that you will learn never to mess with a person like me.
“I will give you ten lawsuits. People are mourning, and there you are taking me to court. I will deal with you.”
The minister allegedly ended the call abruptly.
SOKAPU condemned the remarks as “verbal threats and intimidating language” directed at its leadership for pursuing lawful judicial action.
The Death of Mary Habila
Mary Habila died suddenly on June 27, 2026, in a guest house at Umahi’s Ebonyi residence after arriving with a colleague.
Umahi described her as “like a daughter,” noting that he had previously funded treatment for her health issues.
The late health practitioner, Mary Habila
The late health practitioner, Mary Habila
He denied wrongdoing, insisting her death was linked to pre‑existing medical conditions.
SOKAPU, however, has demanded an independent investigation and compensation for Habila’s family.
The group argues that conflicting statements from family members and police officials about the need for an autopsy raise serious questions about transparency.
SOKAPU’s Position
At its July 28 press conference, SOKAPU stated:
“Our decision to seek judicial intervention and file a suit is entirely within the bounds of the Nigerian constitution and is meant to protect the dignity and rights of our people.
“No intimidation will work in this matter.
“Threats, abuse of power, or aggressive language from public office holders will not stop us from demanding accountability and justice for Mary Habila.”
The union emphasized that its legal action was not politically motivated but aimed at ensuring due process in a case that has unsettled the community.
Government Silence
As of press time, Umahi has not issued a formal response to the allegations.
Officials close to him maintain that he has cooperated with police inquiries and that the matter is being politicized.
The Ministry of Works has declined to comment on the authenticity of the recording, citing ongoing investigations.
Public Reaction
The alleged phone call has sparked outrage across social media, with many Nigerians condemning what they see as arrogance and abuse of power.
Hashtags demanding justice for Mary Habila have trended, while civic groups have called for stronger protections against intimidation of activists and community leaders.
For many, the case symbolizes the broader struggle between ordinary citizens seeking justice and political elites perceived as untouchable.
“This is not just about Mary,” one activist wrote. “It is about whether Nigerians can hold leaders accountable without fear.”
President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Samuel Tabara Kato
President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Samuel Tabara Kato
Broader Implications
Analysts say the controversy highlights systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s justice system.
High‑profile cases often stall amid political influence, leaving families without closure.
The alleged Umahi–Tabara exchange has intensified calls for reforms to ensure independent investigations and judicial integrity.
The incident also raises questions about the conduct of public officials.
Threatening civic leaders, if proven true, undermines democratic norms and erodes public trust in governance.
For SOKAPU and its supporters, the case is a litmus test for whether Nigeria’s institutions can withstand pressure from powerful figures.
