Mary Habila: Family postpones burial, gives reason

The family of 26-year-old Mary Habila, the nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, has indefinitely postponed her burial as the Ebonyi State Police Command insists on conducting an autopsy before releasing her body.

A statement by Elisha Haruna on behalf of the family on Thursday, said the burial, which had been scheduled for Friday, July 17, would no longer be held.

According to the statement, the decision was necessitated by unforeseen circumstances.

“We wish to inform family, friends, and well-wishers that the burial ceremony of our beloved daughter, Mary Habila, has been postponed until further notice due to unforeseen circumstances,” the family said.

The family apologised for the change in plans, appealing for understanding and assuring supporters that a new burial date would be announced once arrangements are concluded.

They expressed appreciation for the prayers, support and solidarity shown during the difficult period.

The development followed an ongoing dispute over the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death, which reportedly occurred at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

Recall that Ebonyi State Police Command has stressed that an autopsy is essential to establish the actual cause of death and has declined to release the body until the examination is carried out, despite the family’s objections.