Physiotherapist Mary Habila Found Dead at David Umahi's Residence: What We Know So Far

Physiotherapist Mary Habila Found Dead at David Umahi's Residence: What We Know So Far

The death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist, at the residence of Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, has sparked widespread public attention and renewed calls for a transparent investigation.

According to reports by SaharaReporters, Habila was found dead under unclear circumstances at the minister's residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, with photographs reportedly showing that she was found without clothing when her body was removed.

Who Was Mary Habila?

Mary Habila was identified as a physiotherapist. Minister David Umahi stated that she and another woman, Mary (Anita) Baski, were healthcare professionals attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS) and had been seconded to his residence.

However, police sources cited in media reports have reportedly challenged that explanation, alleging that the two women travelled from Kaduna State and arrived at the minister's residence on June 26, 2026.

How Did Mary Habila Die?

According to investigators quoted by SaharaReporters, Habila was discovered unresponsive inside the residence on the morning after her arrival.

The exact cause of death has not yet been officially established, and authorities are continuing their investigation.

Police sources alleged that Jonathan Bawado, a police officer serving as Senator David Umahi's Personal Assistant and former Aide-de-Camp during his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, coordinated the women's arrival at the residence and alerted medical personnel after Habila was found unconscious.

David Umahi Reacts

In an official statement released through his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, Minister David Umahi described the incident as "unfortunate" and expressed shock over Habila's death.

According to the minister:

- Emergency medical assistance was immediately requested.

- The Chief Medical Director of DUFUHS was contacted.

- The Nigerian Police Force was promptly informed.

- Habila's parents were received and offered condolences.

- The family was advised to approve an autopsy to determine the medical cause of death.

Umahi also stated that the family initially declined the autopsy recommendation.

Police Investigation Continues

Multiple reports indicate that the case has been transferred from the Ohaozara Divisional Police Headquarters to the Ebonyi State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Abakaliki for further investigation.

Investigators are reportedly examining the circumstances surrounding Habila's arrival, her activities before her death, and statements from everyone present at the residence.

As of the time of writing, no official autopsy findings or police conclusions have been released, and no individual has been found legally responsible for Habila's death.

Public Concerns Grow

The incident has generated significant public debate, with many Nigerians questioning:

- Why healthcare workers were reportedly at the minister's private residence.

- Whether all official procedures were followed after the incident.

- What the final autopsy and police investigation will reveal.

Civil society groups and members of the public have continued to call for an independent, transparent, and impartial investigation to establish the facts.

Conclusion

The circumstances surrounding Mary Habila's death remain unclear, and several claims circulating online have not been independently verified. While media reports have raised serious questions, the investigation is still ongoing, and official findings are yet to be released.

The outcome of the police investigation and any forensic examination will be crucial in determining exactly what happened.

>>> What are your thoughts on this developing story? Do you believe a full independent investigation is necessary? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article to keep others informed as more verified updates emerge.