The family of 26-year-old physiotherapist Mary Habila has announced her burial arrangements following her death at the country residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State, as calls for an autopsy continue.
According to the funeral announcement released by the family, Habila will be laid to rest on Friday, July 17, 2026. Her funeral service is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The announcement stated that Habila was born on September 18, 2000, and passed away on June 27, 2026, at the age of 26.
She was found unconscious at Umahi’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The exact circumstances surrounding her death are still being investigated by the authorities.
Following the incident, the Nigeria Police transferred the case from the local divisional headquarters to the Ebonyi State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Abakaliki for a more detailed investigation.
David Umahi confirmed the incident, explaining that Habila was a physiotherapist with the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences who had been deployed to the Federal Ministry of Works.
The minister said emergency medical personnel were immediately contacted after the incident and disclosed that he advised the deceased’s family to approve an autopsy to establish the exact cause of death through scientific examination.
According to Umahi, an autopsy would help eliminate speculation and provide clarity on the events surrounding the incident.
Although the family has announced burial plans, public interest remains focused on whether an autopsy will be conducted as police continue their investigation.
The case has generated widespread attention across the country, with many Nigerians awaiting the outcome of the investigation. Reports alleging that Habila was found unclothed when her body was recovered from the minister’s residence have further intensified public concern and increased calls for a transparent investigation.
