Full Details: Umahi Reacts To The Controversial Death Of Mary Habila

According to iReporter Online, Umahi made the remarks during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, where he expressed grief over Habila’s death, describing her as someone who was like a daughter to him and his family. He said her passing came as a painful shock and dismissed suggestions that he had any reason to harm her.

Habila’s death has continued to attract widespread attention after she was found dead at the minister’s residence in Ebonyi State, prompting calls from opposition figures, civil society organisations and concerned Nigerians for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Responding to the controversy, Umahi maintained that Habila shared a close relationship with his family and had lived with them for about three years. He explained that she worked as a nurse at the Federal University of Health Sciences and had been receiving treatment for an existing medical condition at a hospital in Turkey long before her death.

The minister disclosed that he personally financed her latest medical trip abroad in April, stating that he paid about ₦2.2 million for her treatment. He noted that the medical records from the Turkish hospital were available and could be verified.

Umahi further revealed that Habila was on a phone call with her boyfriend shortly before her death, during which she reportedly complained of bleeding from her nose. According to him, the boyfriend advised her to seek medical attention and ended the call after expressing concern that continued conversation might worsen her condition. He added that repeated attempts by the boyfriend to reach her moments later were unsuccessful.

The minister said she was later discovered after the door to her room was forced open, adding that the bathroom tap was still running when she was found.

He argued that the guest house where the incident occurred was located far from his own residence and questioned why he should be held personally responsible for a death that occurred within the premises. Umahi insisted there was no evidence suggesting criminal activity and warned against using the tragedy to score political points.

On the ongoing investigation, Umahi disclosed that he had requested the Inspector-General of Police to transfer the case to Abuja to ensure a thorough and impartial probe. He also appealed to Habila’s family to permit an autopsy, explaining that the examination was necessary to determine the actual cause of death.

According to the minister, the family has reportedly declined the request, citing cultural beliefs, creating what he described as a stalemate. He added that authorities had directed that the body should not be released until an autopsy is conducted.

Umahi also criticised the circulation of photographs and reports relating to the case, alleging that misleading information had been deliberately released to damage his reputation. He disclosed that he had instructed his legal team to pursue legal action against individuals accused of cyberbullying and spreading false narratives.

Reaffirming his position, the minister maintained that he suspected no foul play in Habila’s death and urged Nigerians to allow law enforcement authorities to complete their investigation before drawing conclusions. He expressed sympathy for the deceased’s family and prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul.