Mary Habila’s Father Rejects Autopsy, Demands Release of Daughter’s Body for Burial

The father of Mary Habila, the 26-year-old physiotherapist who died at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has rejected plans for an autopsy and appealed for the immediate release of his daughter’s remains for burial.

The deceased’s father, Mr. Habila, reportedly expressed the family’s decision to discontinue further investigation into the matter, stating that their priority was to take custody of Mary’s body and give her a proper burial according to their wishes.

The development comes amid ongoing public interest and calls from various groups and individuals for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the young physiotherapist’s death.

Mary Habila was reported to have died on June 27, 2026, at a building within the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, where she was said to have been part of a medical team attending to Umahi.

Following the incident, the Ebonyi State Police Command commenced investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.

The police had indicated that forensic examination, including an autopsy, would be necessary to establish the actual cause of death and provide clarity on questions raised by the public.

However, Mary’s father reportedly declined consent for the post-mortem examination, insisting that the family did not want further delay in receiving her remains.

The family’s position contrasts with calls from some political figures and civil society groups who have demanded an independent investigation into the matter to ensure transparency and accountability.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had earlier called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend Minister Umahi pending investigation, arguing that such a step would help maintain public confidence in the process.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) also made a similar demand, urging the Federal Government to order an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.

Meanwhile, Umahi has denied any wrongdoing and called for a comprehensive forensic investigation, including an autopsy, to determine the facts surrounding the incident.

The minister maintained that the truth should be established through a transparent process and rejected allegations of involvement in any wrongdoing.

The police have continued to handle the matter, although the family’s refusal of an autopsy and request for the release of the body have introduced a new dimension to the investigation.

As public attention remains focused on the case, questions surrounding the circumstances of Mary Habila’s death continue to generate discussions among Nigerians, with calls for clarity and justice from different quarters.

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