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The Ebonyi State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a medical professional who reportedly died while on official duty in the state.
Habila was part of a medical team accompanying the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to his hometown in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area, where she was allegedly found dead within the minister’s residential compound.
Although investigations are ongoing, the police disclosed that the deceased’s family has objected to an autopsy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, said the circumstances surrounding the death and the location where it occurred made a post-mortem examination necessary to determine the actual cause of death and ensure a transparent investigation.
Ukandu explained that while the family had formally opposed an autopsy, the police were still making arrangements to engage a pathologist. He added that the command was awaiting the arrival of the family or an authorised representative, whose presence is required before the examination can proceed.
According to the police, the Divisional Police Officer in Ohaozara received a distress call on June 27, 2026, about a medical emergency involving Habila. On arrival at the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), Uburu, hospital authorities confirmed that she had been brought in dead.
The DPO subsequently briefed the Commissioner of Police, who directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation.
The command said detectives had already processed the scene and obtained statements from key witnesses and other relevant persons, assuring the public that the inquiry would be thorough, transparent and impartial.
Meanwhile, Umahi has insisted that the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death must be fully investigated to establish the true cause of her death.
Through his legal counsel, the minister formally requested the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State to ensure that an autopsy is carried out before the deceased is buried.
In the letter dated July 15, 2026, Umahi said a forensic examination was necessary to eliminate speculation, preserve the integrity of the investigation and ensure justice for all parties.
He maintained that only a comprehensive autopsy conducted by qualified forensic pathologists would scientifically determine the cause and circumstances of Habila’s death before her remains are released for burial.
