Mary Habila, the physiotherapist attached to the office of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who died at his residence in Ebonyi State, has been buried in Kaduna State.
The burial took place on Friday, August 21, in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area Kaduna State — as questions over the cause and circumstances surrounding her death remained unanswered.
Police reportedly called for forensic autopsy as part of their investigation, while Habila’s family opposed the procedure and sought the release of her remains for burial.
With autopsy dispute unresolved, concerns remain over whether crucial forensic evidence that could have helped establish what happened to the 26-year-old medical professional has now been lost.
Her death on June 27, 2026 at Umahi’s residence in Uburi, Ohazara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has generated sustained public concern, conflicting accounts and a legal battle involving the minister, the deceased’s family, security authorities and the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU.
The circumstances surrounding her death have also prompted calls from civil society groups and members of the public for an independent forensic examination to establish what transpired before her she died.
The burial comes after Habila’s father, Tanko Habila Wisdom, filed the legal proceedings opposing the proposed autopsy.
The case continues to attract public attention,with calls for transparency and a credible investigation into the circumstances surrounding her sudden death.
-9News Nigeria
