Umahi calls for autopsy after report on death of woman in his Ebonyi county home

Crime Diary, Politics

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — Minister of Works, David Umahi, has responded to a report questioning the circumstances surrounding the death of Miss Mary Habila at his country home in Uburu, Ebonyi State, reiterating his call for an autopsy to establish the exact cause of her death.

The reaction followed a report by Sahara Reporters, which alleged that the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death were shrouded in secrecy.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, the minister said he received news of Habila’s death with profound shock and sadness and had since extended his condolences to her family.

According to the statement, emergency measures were immediately initiated after the incident, including contacting medical personnel from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, while the Nigeria Police Force was promptly notified in accordance with the law.

The statement added that after Habila’s death was confirmed, Umahi personally met with her parents, offered his condolences and advised that an autopsy be conducted to scientifically determine the cause of death.

However, it said the family declined the recommendation at the time.

The minister’s office also clarified that Miss Mary Habila and Miss Anita Baski were employees of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences who had been on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works as physiotherapists for the past three years.

According to the statement, Umahi has renewed his call for an autopsy following recent public discussions surrounding the incident.

“Following the recent developments and in the interest of ensuring that the truth is established beyond doubt, the Honourable Minister has again reiterated his position that an autopsy must be conducted. He remains convinced that this is the most credible and responsible path to resolving all questions surrounding the unfortunate incident,” the statement said.

The minister appealed to members of the public to avoid speculation and allow the relevant authorities to carry out their investigations without interference.

“We therefore urge the public to exercise restraint, refrain from speculation or premature conclusions, and allow the relevant authorities to carry out their responsibilities without interference,” the statement added.

The minister also expressed sympathy to the family of the deceased and prayed for the repose of her soul.

Sahara Reporters had alleged that the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death were not transparent.

The publication’s claims have not been independently verified by Newpost Africa at the time of filing this report.