Mary Habila: Why Umahi want ‘forensic autopsy’ before release of body to family

The legal representatives of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, have explained why the minister demanded ‘forensic autopsy’ on the late Mary Habila before her body will be released to the family.

Recall that Habila, a nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, DUFUS, and on secondment to the works ministry, died on June 26 in a staff chalet located within the minister’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area. Read an eyewitness account of her last moments HERE.

Meanwhile, Ebonyi State Police Command Police Public Relations Officer SP Joshua Ukandu, revealed that Mary Habila’s family expressed opposition to an autopsy on their daughter.

However, as investigations continue, legal representatives acting for Minister David Umahi, have formally requested the Ebonyi State Police Command to conduct a comprehensive forensic autopsy before Habila’s body is released for burial.

In a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Police, the minister’s lawyers said the request was made to ensure transparency, protect the integrity of the investigation, and establish the true cause of death.

The lawyers clarified that Habila was staying in accommodation reserved for staff members and associates, not in the minister’s personal residence. They noted that on the night of the incident, only Habila and Anita Baaki occupied the building.

The legal team urged the Police to engage qualified forensic pathologists to determine the precise cause and circumstances of Habila’s death.

They also requested that the remains not be released to her family — including her next of kin, Tanko Habila Wisdom of Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State — until the autopsy and all necessary investigative procedures are completed.

According to the lawyers, delaying the release of the body until forensic examinations are concluded would help preserve evidence, reduce speculation, and ensure that any conclusions about the death are based on scientific findings rather than assumptions.

Vanguard News

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