Police, Umahi Oppose Court Bid to Stop Autopsy in Mary Habila Death Case
The investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a nurse who died at the country home of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has taken a fresh turn as the Ebonyi State Police Command and the minister have opposed attempts to halt an autopsy on the deceased.
The police insist that a post-mortem examination is essential to establish the exact cause of Habila’s death and ensure a transparent, professional, and credible investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The development follows reports that members of the deceased’s family approached the court seeking to stop the autopsy and requested that her body be released for burial without further medical examination. The family reportedly maintained that they did not suspect foul play and wished to proceed with funeral arrangements.
However, the Ebonyi State Police Command has maintained that the case requires a forensic examination, stressing that an autopsy is a critical component of its ongoing investigation. Detectives have reportedly gathered statements from relevant witnesses and engaged a pathologist to determine the medical cause of death.
Minister David Umahi has also backed the police position, insisting that the autopsy should be conducted to remove every doubt surrounding the incident. He said Habila had worked with him for about three years and described her as someone he regarded “like a daughter.”
Umahi rejected allegations linking him to the nurse’s death, saying there was no foul play and warning against attempts to politicise the tragic incident. He disclosed that the late nurse had a history of medical challenges and had previously received treatment, while insisting that only a forensic examination could establish the true cause of death.
Police authorities reiterated that the investigation remains active and assured the public that every necessary legal and forensic procedure would be followed before any conclusion is reached.
The death of Mary Habila has continued to generate nationwide attention, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
