By SUNTV Global Channel News Desk
Published: Monday, July 13, 2026 | Abuja/Abakaliki, Nigeria
ABUJA — Police investigators are continuing their investigation into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila, who was found unresponsive at the country residence of Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, detectives are working to establish a comprehensive timeline of events surrounding the incident, including who was present at the residence, the actions taken after Habila was discovered, and the exact time emergency medical assistance was requested.
Investigators are also examining reports that the minister left the residence shortly after the incident while aides coordinated emergency response efforts. Authorities have not released any official findings confirming these claims, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The death has attracted nationwide attention, prompting intensified police inquiries. Detectives are gathering witness statements, forensic evidence, and other relevant materials to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
Minister David Umahi has publicly denied any wrongdoing and has described the incident as unfortunate. In an earlier statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the minister said emergency medical personnel were immediately contacted after the incident, including officials of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, while the Nigerian Police Force was also promptly informed.
Umahi further stated that he personally received the deceased’s parents, expressed his condolences, and advised the family to approve an autopsy to scientifically establish the cause of death.
However, police sources involved in the investigation have reportedly questioned aspects of the minister’s public account, including claims regarding the employment status of Habila and another woman who was reportedly present at the residence.
Investigators have also declined requests to release Habila’s body for burial, maintaining that the case remains under active investigation and that all necessary forensic examinations must be completed before any further action is taken.
Police sources further disclosed that the case has been transferred from the Ohaozara Divisional Police Headquarters to the Ebonyi State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Abakaliki to allow for a more detailed investigation.
Authorities have yet to announce the official cause of death, while no individual has been charged in connection with the incident.
As investigations continue, the Nigeria Police Force has urged the public to avoid speculation and allow investigators to complete their work.
The death of Mary Habila has continued to generate widespread public interest, with many Nigerians calling for a transparent, impartial, and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as more official information becomes available.
