Mary Habila's Death Deepens Mystery as Calls Grow for Independent Probe and Autopsy

The death of 26-year-old Mary Habila at the Ebonyi residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has sparked nationwide calls for a transparent and independent investigation. Habila, who died on June 27, 2026, was initially reported to be a physiotherapist but was later identified as a nurse by Minister Umahi and the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy.

The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, prompting public concern and demands for accountability.

Civil society organisations, including the Allied People's Movement (APM), the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), and the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD Nigeria), have urged President Bola Tinubu to direct an independent investigation into the matter.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also called for a comprehensive autopsy conducted by independent forensic experts and measures to protect Habila's family throughout the investigative process. The Ebonyi State Director of Public Prosecutions disclosed that Habila was found lifeless with visible blood stains around her nose and mouth, recommending a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death.

Minister David Umahi has denied any involvement or wrongdoing, dismissing allegations linking him to Habila's death and maintaining that due process should be allowed to take its course. The incident has generated intense public debate, particularly following reports of conflicting accounts surrounding the events leading to her death and allegations that her family was pressured to proceed with her burial without an autopsy.

As calls for an independent and transparent investigation continue to grow, many Nigerians are awaiting the outcome of official inquiries to determine the circumstances of Mary Habila's death.