Family exonerates Umahi, says Mary Habila died of cardiac arrest

The family of Mary Habila, the 25-year-old nurse who died at the residence of David Umahi, minister of works, has said she was diagnosed with a hole in her heart and later died from cardiac arrest.

Habila was buried on Friday in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

In the burial programme containing a brief biography of the deceased, her family said her health condition became critical despite medical treatment, prayers and support from loved ones.

“Mary Habila lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart. Though she faced significant health challenges, she carried herself with courage, faith, and quiet resilience,” the biography reads.

“She remained hopeful and continued to touch the lives of those around her with her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit. Despite medical care and the prayers and support of her family and loved ones, her condition became critical. She sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

“Though her life was cut short, Mary will always be remembered for her strength in the face of adversity, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone blessed to know her. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

Habila died on June 27 at Umahi’s residence in Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, while she was attached to the minister’s medical team.

Her death sparked widespread public interest, with calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Umahi subsequently asked the Ebonyi State Police Command to conduct an autopsy on Habila’s body.

The minister also requested that the police withhold her remains from the family until the post-mortem examination was completed, saying it was necessary to establish the actual cause and circumstances of her death.

However, Habila’s family rejected the request, insisting that they did not want an autopsy conducted.

The Ebonyi Police Command subsequently said it would conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of her death despite the family’s opposition.

In July, the Incorporated Trustees of the Southern Kaduna Peoples’ United Associations (SOKAPU) filed a N20 billion suit against Umahi over Habila’s death, alleging a breach of duty of care while she was in the minister’s custody.