The Ebonyi State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a medical professional who reportedly died while on official duty in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of the state.
Habila was part of a medical team accompanying the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during a visit to his hometown when she was found dead inside the minister’s residential compound on June 27.
The circumstances surrounding her death have triggered calls for a thorough forensic examination to determine the actual cause of her passing.
Police spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu said the command had commenced a comprehensive inquiry due to the sensitive nature of the case and the location where the incident occurred.
He explained that the Ohaozara Divisional Police Officer received a distress call on June 27, 2026, concerning a medical emergency involving Habila and proceeded to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), Uburu.
According to the police, hospital authorities confirmed that Habila was brought in dead.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
The police revealed that Habila’s family had expressed opposition to conducting an autopsy on their daughter.
However, the command maintained that a post-mortem examination was necessary to scientifically establish the cause of death and ensure transparency.
The police said they were making arrangements to engage a pathologist but were waiting for the presence of the family or an authorised representative, which is required before the procedure could proceed.
The Ebonyi Police Command assured the public that the investigation would be thorough, impartial and transparent.
The command said additional updates would be provided as more facts emerge from the ongoing inquiry.
Investigators have already visited the scene and obtained statements from witnesses and other relevant individuals.
Meanwhile, Minister David Umahi has called for a full forensic investigation into the death.
Through his legal representative, the minister wrote to the Ebonyi State Police Commissioner requesting that an autopsy be conducted before Habila’s remains are released for burial.
Umahi said a credible forensic examination was necessary to remove doubts, prevent speculation and ensure justice for all parties involved.
He argued that only an independent medical examination could conclusively determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
