Police Insist on Autopsy Amid Family Opposition in Mary Habila Death Case
The Ebonyi State Police Command says a post-mortem will be conducted on Mary Habila, a 26-year-old physiotherapist found dead in Minister David Umahi’s residence, despite opposition from her family.
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The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed that a post-mortem examination will proceed on the body of Mary Habila, the 26-year-old physiotherapist found dead at the official residence of Minister of Works David Umahi. Despite opposition from Habila’s family, authorities insist the autopsy is necessary for a conclusive determination of cause of death, according to Daily Trust.
Police said they have completed arrangements to engage a pathologist to conduct the examination. The statement underscores the official stance that forensic investigation remains critical, regardless of familial objections. Naija News reported that the police command reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out the post-mortem, citing procedural necessity in cases of unexplained death.
Separately, presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate suspension of Minister Umahi pending the outcome of the investigation. His demands, reported by Naija News, include a transparent inquiry, preservation of evidence, and accountability from the federal government. However, no official response from the Tinubu administration has been reported.
The circumstances surrounding Habila’s death remain under investigation. No cause of death has been confirmed, and no arrests have been made. The police have not linked Umahi directly to any wrongdoing, and the minister has not publicly commented in the available reports.