Headline: Mary Habila: Nigerians Demand Independent Forensic Investigation into Death at David Umahi’s Residence

Ebonyi State – Calls are mounting for an independent forensic investigation into the sudden death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist attached to the Federal Ministry of Works, who died at the country residence of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The demand comes amid growing public interest in the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death and follows the minister’s own public insistence that an autopsy be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
Critics and concerned citizens argue that, beyond a routine autopsy, an independent forensic investigation involving impartial experts would help ensure transparency, strengthen public confidence, and address lingering questions surrounding the incident.
In an earlier statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Francis Nwaze, Umahi said he was deeply saddened by the incident and dismissed claims that the death was being concealed. He stated that emergency medical personnel and the Nigeria Police were promptly notified after the incident occurred.
According to the statement, the minister personally met with the deceased’s parents, offered his condolences, and initially advised that an autopsy be carried out to scientifically determine the cause of death. The statement added that the family initially declined the recommendation, but Umahi has since reiterated his position that an autopsy remains necessary.
The minister’s office also clarified that Mary Habila and another physiotherapist, Anita Baski, were employees of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, who had been on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works for the past three years.
As of the time of filing this report, no official police findings or medical report establishing the cause of Habila’s death had been released.
Observers say an independent forensic investigation, alongside the ongoing police inquiry, could help establish the facts, dispel speculation, and ensure accountability, regardless of where the evidence leads.