The family of Mary Habila, the 26-year-old physiotherapist whose death at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has attracted widespread public attention, has announced that she will be laid to rest on Friday, July 17, even as police investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death continue.
Habila, popularly known as Mara, reportedly died under disputed circumstances at the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State, on June 27, 2026.
Her death has triggered public concern, with civil society groups and individuals demanding a thorough investigation, transparency in the process, and a forensic autopsy to determine the cause of death.
According to a funeral announcement issued by her family, Habila was born on September 18, 2000, and passed away at the age of 26.
The family said her funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Family members, friends, colleagues, church members and other well-wishers are expected to attend the service.
The burial announcement comes while security agencies are still investigating the incident.
Reports circulating after her death alleged that Habila’s body was discovered unclothed at the minister’s residence, prompting renewed calls for an independent investigation and a coroner’s inquest.
Among those calling for further scrutiny is African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Omoyele Sowore, who urged authorities to halt the burial until a coroner’s inquest and other forensic procedures, including an autopsy where necessary, are concluded.
“There MUST be a coroner’s inquest into the death of Mary Habila at the residence of Tinubu’s Minister of Works, David Umahi,” Sowore said in a statement posted on his social media page.
He maintained that an independent investigation is essential to establish the true circumstances surrounding Habila’s death and ensure public confidence in the outcome.
As of the time of filing this report, the police have not released the findings of their ongoing investigation into the incident.
