Anita Baaki, a close friend and colleague of the late nurse Mary Habila, has narrated the events leading up to Habila’s death in a sworn affidavit submitted before the Ebonyi State High Court.
Baaki, a physiotherapist from Benue State, said she travelled from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24, 2026, alongside Habila and other officials of the Federal Ministry of Works for an official assignment under the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
According to the affidavit, the ministry officials were accommodated in separate but adjoining rooms at a staff chalet located within the minister’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area. She clarified that the facility was designated for ministry personnel and associates and was not the minister’s private residence.
Baaki recalled that she last saw Habila alive on the evening of June 26 after the nurse returned from having her hair done. She said Habila briefly visited her room to show her the new hairstyle before mentioning that she intended to take a shower and rest for the night.
The following morning, Baaki became worried after Habila failed to come out of her room. She said several phone calls went unanswered, and after repeated knocks on the door yielded no response, she informed a domestic staff member to help locate her.
When searches around the premises proved unsuccessful, other staff members were alerted, and the room was eventually forced open.
According to Baaki, Habila was found unconscious on the floor near the entrance of her room and was immediately taken to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where doctors confirmed she was dead on arrival.
She said her statement was made voluntarily to assist investigators in determining the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
Meanwhile, police investigations into the incident are ongoing, while lawyers representing the Minister of Works have requested a comprehensive forensic autopsy to establish the exact cause of death before the body is released for burial.
Reacting to the incident, David Umahi said there would be no attempt to conceal the facts surrounding Habila’s death. He disclosed that he personally ordered a forensic autopsy and assured the public that anyone found responsible would face the full weight of the law.
