Fresh controversy has surrounded the ongoing investigation into the death of Mary Habila, the woman who died under controversial circumstances at the private residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
According to reports, there are allegations that the Minister requested the transfer of the police investigation and the planned forensic autopsy from Ebonyi State to Abuja. The claims have not been officially confirmed by the Minister or the Nigeria Police Force.
The development follows growing public calls for a transparent investigation after Habila’s planned burial was suspended pending the outcome of police inquiries.
Reports also indicate that Habila’s father had earlier filed an affidavit opposing an autopsy. However, the burial was later postponed amid increasing public demand for a forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death.
The circumstances surrounding Habila’s death have generated widespread public interest, with conflicting accounts about her professional background. While earlier reports described her as a physiotherapist, the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy stated that her name was not listed in its register of licensed physiotherapists. Subsequent reports identified her as a Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW).
Meanwhile, the State Police investigation remains ongoing, with authorities maintaining that a forensic autopsy is necessary to establish the cause of death before the body can be released for burial.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Minister of Works nor the Nigeria Police Force had issued an official statement responding to the latest allegations regarding the proposed transfer of the investigation.
