Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has dismissed allegations of wrongdoing in the death of Nurse Mary Habila, urging Nigerians not to turn the tragedy into a political issue.
Umahi, who addressed journalists in Abuja on Thursday, said Habila was a trusted member of his medical team and had worked with him for about three years.
The minister explained that the nurse, who was a federal medical staff member, was part of the medical team that accompanied him to his hometown in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, where she was later found dead inside his residential compound.
Umahi insisted that there was no connection between him and the circumstances surrounding her death, describing claims of foul play as unfair and unfortunate.
He appealed to those commenting on the matter to allow investigations to take their course instead of politicising the death of a young healthcare worker.
According to the former Ebonyi State governor, Habila was “like a daughter” to him, adding that their families had maintained a close relationship over the years.
Umahi also provided details of Habila’s final moments, saying she spoke with her boyfriend shortly before her death and complained of bleeding from her nose.
He said the boyfriend advised her to seek help after noticing the bleeding, but the call was later disconnected.
When he attempted to reach her again a few minutes later, she reportedly stopped responding.
The minister added that Habila had earlier informed her boyfriend that she wanted to take a bath.
When she was later found unresponsive, her room had to be forced open, with the tap still running.
Umahi said Habila had received medical care at a private hospital in Abuja, with treatment expenses covered by his family, further describing their relationship as one built on trust and support.
The police have commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the nurse’s death, while Umahi has called for a forensic examination to establish the true cause of the incident.
