Legal Advice Deepens Mystery Surrounding Umahi’s Aide’s Death

The circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila, a nurse attached to the office of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, have taken a new turn following legal advice from the Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice, which recommended a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of her sudden death.

According to the legal opinion signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, there was no evidence that Habila had any pre-existing health condition before her death. The advice noted that she was reportedly in good health before returning to Uburu on June 26, 2026, and stressed that only an autopsy could establish both the immediate and underlying causes of her death and guide the police investigation.

The development comes as Habila's family continues to demand the release of her body for burial, opposing an autopsy on cultural and personal grounds. Through their lawyer, the family has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, requesting the transfer of the investigation from the Ebonyi State Police Command and alleging that the continued detention of her remains has caused emotional and psychological distress. Meanwhile, police have begun inviting individuals considered relevant to the investigation to provide statements.

Minister David Umahi has denied any wrongdoing, insisting he suspects no foul play in Habila's death. He described attempts to link him to the incident as politically motivated, stating that the deceased had worked with him for about three years and was like a daughter to him. While some groups have called for his suspension pending the outcome of investigations, others have urged the public to allow the police to complete their work without political interference.