The David Umahi scandal, centred around the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila has sparked widespread public concern and calls for an independent investigation after she was found dead under controversial circumstances at the Ebonyi residence of Minister of Works, David Umahi.
According to the minister, Habila was a physiotherapist attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences who had been seconded to attend to him. Umahi said he immediately notified the police, expressed condolences to her family and urged them to consent to an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, while denying allegations of any wrongdoing.
Recall that Habila died on June 27, 2026, in Uburu, in the Ohaozara Local Government Area of the state, after travelling with the minister to his hometown.
Umahi demands autopsy
Meanwhile, Senator David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has formally requested that the Nigeria Police Force conduct a full forensic autopsy on the late Mary Habila before her remains are released for burial. Demographics
Umahi’s lawyers, Roy O. Umahi Nwaeze (SAN) and Roy D. U. Nwaeze (SAN), submitted the plea to the police in a letter.
The lawyers stressed that the dead did not live in the same building as the Minister, stating that the facility was only for members of his staff and others who worked with him.
Umahi emphasized the need for transparency and justice, urging the police to conduct a thorough forensic investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
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Police Probe David Umahi Scandal
Finally reacting to the scandal, the Ebonyi State Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation into the sudden death of Miss Mary Habila, a medical professional who reportedly died while on duty.
In a statement released Wednesday night, Police spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu explained that due to the highly sensitive nature of the case and where the death occurred, the Command has ordered a post-mortem examination to scientifically establish the exact cause of death and guarantee a transparent investigation.
Mary Habila’s father rejects autopsy
However, following the demand for an autopsy, her father, Tanko Habila, made the request in an affidavit dated 13th of July and filed before the High Court of Justice in Ebonyi State.
He said the family did not suspect foul play in her death.
“While I welcome steps being taken to unravel the cause of my daughter’s death, my family and I will not accept any autopsy,” the affidavit stated.
