Omanghana
The family of Mary Habila, a 26-year-old physiotherapist who was found dead at the Ebonyi State residence of Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has postponed her burial as authorities continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The delay follows an ongoing dispute between the family and police authorities over the need for a forensic autopsy, with the case attracting widespread public attention and calls for a transparent investigation.
Death of Medical Professional Raises Questions
Mary Habila, who was part of the medical team attached to Minister Umahi’s office, had accompanied the minister to his hometown of Uburu, Ebonyi State.
According to reports, she arrived at the residence on June 26, 2026, but was found unresponsive in her apartment the following morning.
Investigative sources and legal documents reportedly indicated that Habila was discovered in a disturbing condition, including allegations that she was found without clothing and with blood stains around her nose and mouth.
The circumstances surrounding her death have raised concerns and prompted calls for a detailed investigation to determine exactly what happened.
Family Rejects Autopsy Request
The controversy intensified after Mary Habila’s family objected to the conduct of a post-mortem examination.
Her father, Tanko Habila, reportedly filed an affidavit before the Ebonyi State High Court formally rejecting an autopsy and requesting that his daughter’s body and organs remain intact in line with the family’s cultural and personal beliefs.
The family’s position has created a stand-off with investigators, who believe a forensic examination is necessary to establish the cause of death.
Police Insist on Forensic Examination
The Ebonyi State Police Command, supported by legal guidance from the state’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), has maintained that an autopsy must be conducted before the body can be released.
Police officials argue that a forensic examination is essential in cases involving unexplained deaths and is the only reliable way to determine whether the death resulted from natural causes, an accident, or possible criminal activity.
Authorities have therefore declined to release the remains until the required investigative procedures are completed.
Burial Put on Hold
The family had initially planned to bury Mary Habila on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Kaduna State.
However, the funeral arrangements have been suspended because the body remains in police custody pending resolution of the autopsy dispute.
The family has not announced a new burial date.
Umahi Denies Wrongdoing
Minister David Umahi has strongly rejected allegations of foul play surrounding Habila’s death.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja, the minister described the accusations as unfair and warned against turning the tragedy into a political issue.
Umahi explained that the guest house where members of his medical team stayed was located at a considerable distance from his own residence within the compound.
He also stated that he supports a full forensic investigation and has encouraged the family to allow the autopsy to proceed.
Minister Describes Habila as “Like a Daughter”
The minister expressed grief over Habila’s death, describing her as someone close to him and saying she was “like a daughter.”
Umahi also revealed that Habila had existing medical records and had reportedly complained of a nosebleed to her boyfriend shortly before her death.
He said these details should form part of a thorough investigation rather than assumptions being made before the facts are established.
Case May Be Transferred to Abuja
In an effort to promote transparency, Minister Umahi has requested that the investigation be transferred to the Police Headquarters in Abuja.
The move, according to the minister, would help ensure that the case is handled independently and without local influence.
Public Outcry and Calls for Independent Probe
The death of Mary Habila has triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria, with activists, civil society groups, and human rights organizations demanding a comprehensive inquiry.
Human rights advocate Omoyele Sowore has called for a full coroner’s inquest into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The Nigerian Women International Alliance and other civil society groups have also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure an independent, transparent investigation.
Investigation Continues
As police investigations continue, public attention remains focused on the outcome of the forensic process and the findings that will determine the circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference, while the family continues to seek answers and closure over the loss of their daughter.
Source: Omanghana
