The controversy surrounding the death of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila, has deepened as fresh details emerged about her final hours, while opposition politicians and northern youth groups intensified calls for an independent investigation and forensic autopsy.
Habila, a staff member of the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences who was on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, died on June 27 under circumstances that have continued to generate public debate and scrutiny.
The young healthcare professional was reportedly found unconscious in a staff accommodation within the country home of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
As police investigations continue, her colleague and close friend, Anita Baaki, has provided investigators with a detailed account of the events preceding the tragedy.
Colleague recounts last encounter
In a sworn affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court, Baaki narrated how she and Habila travelled from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24 alongside other officials attached to the Federal Ministry of Works for an official engagement.
According to her, members of the delegation were accommodated in a chalet reserved for ministry staff and associates within the minister’s country home.
She clarified that the facility was separate from Umahi’s personal residence.
Baaki said she last saw Habila on the evening of June 26 after the deceased returned from a hair appointment.
The physiotherapist recalled that Habila briefly visited her room to show her newly styled hair before they spent some time chatting.
According to Baaki, nothing appeared unusual during their interaction.
“Mary told me she was tired and wanted to take a shower before sleeping. That was the last time I saw her alive,” she stated.
The following morning, however, Baaki became concerned when Habila failed to leave her room as expected.
Repeated telephone calls reportedly went unanswered.
After several unsuccessful attempts to get a response, she knocked on the room door but received no reply.
She subsequently alerted a domestic worker and other staff members to help locate her colleague.
When searches elsewhere proved unsuccessful, the room was forced open.
Habila was discovered lying unconscious near the entrance.
She was immediately rushed to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital in Uburu, where doctors reportedly confirmed her death.
Baaki told investigators that her statement was made voluntarily to assist efforts to establish what happened.
Autopsy at centre of investigation
The Ebonyi State Police Command has insisted that a forensic autopsy is necessary to determine the exact cause of death.
The command said investigators have visited the scene, obtained statements from relevant persons and transferred the matter to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive probe.
Police authorities disclosed that arrangements were being made to engage forensic pathologists to conduct a post-mortem examination.
Officials maintain that scientific evidence remains critical to establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The command has also stressed that the investigation would be thorough, transparent and impartial.
Umahi’s legal team seeks forensic examination
Lawyers representing the Minister of Works have formally requested that police authorities conduct a comprehensive forensic autopsy before releasing Habila’s remains for burial.
In a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Police, the legal team argued that a scientific examination was necessary to determine the true cause of death and preserve the credibility of the investigation.
The lawyers reiterated that Habila was staying in accommodation designated for ministry staff and associates rather than the minister’s personal residence.
They also stated that only Habila and another occupant, Anita Baaki, were present in the building on the night before the incident.
According to the legal representatives, withholding the body until all forensic procedures are completed would help preserve evidence and prevent speculation.
The minister himself has publicly supported an autopsy and has denied any wrongdoing.
Umahi has maintained that there was no attempt to conceal the incident and said he encouraged the deceased’s family to approve a post-mortem examination.
Northern youth group demands accountability
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has joined calls for an independent investigation into the death.
In a statement signed by its National President, Isah Abubakar, the group described the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death as disturbing and called for a transparent forensic examination.
The council argued that only an independent autopsy would provide credible answers and reassure the public.
According to the organisation, the investigation must be free from any form of interference and should be conducted in a manner that inspires confidence.
The group also urged the Nigeria Police Force to pursue the matter diligently and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
Beyond its call for an independent probe, the council demanded that Umahi step aside while investigations are ongoing.
It argued that such a move would remove any perception of influence and strengthen public trust in the outcome.
The youth body further threatened nationwide protests in collaboration with civil society organisations if its demands are not addressed within seven days.
ADC presses for independent inquiry
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has also called for an independent investigation into the incident.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the death of a young woman in premises linked to a serving cabinet minister raises serious public concerns.
The ADC argued that the matter should not be left solely within the control of government agencies and called for an inquiry conducted outside executive influence.
According to the party, unanswered questions surrounding Habila’s death require a transparent and credible investigation.
The ADC said a comprehensive autopsy should be carried out and the findings made public.
It further urged Umahi to temporarily step aside from office while investigations continue.
The party maintained that accountability and transparency are necessary to reassure Nigerians that the truth will emerge.
“The death of a citizen under such circumstances demands exceptional openness and scrutiny,” the ADC said.
The party also expressed sympathy to Habila’s family and urged authorities to ensure justice is served.
Burial scheduled amid ongoing investigation
Despite the ongoing controversy, Habila’s family has fixed July 17 for her burial.
In a funeral announcement, relatives disclosed that the deceased, fondly known as Mara, would be laid to rest following a service at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The family stated that Habila was born on September 18, 2000, and died on June 27, 2026, at the age of 26.
Her death has attracted widespread attention across the country, with growing calls for transparency and accountability.
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