ABAKILIKI: The family of Mary Habila, the 26-year-old physiotherapist whose death at the Ebonyi residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has sparked nationwide debate, has announced plans for her burial.
The announcement comes as grief, sympathy and calls for a transparent investigation continue to pour in from Nigerians, many of whom are demanding answers about the circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death.
According to a funeral notice released by the family, Mary Habila, fondly called Mara, was born on September 18, 2000, and died on June 27, 2026.
Her father has fixed Friday, July 17, 2026, for her burial.
The funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the Deeper Life Bible Church, Nok, in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where relatives, friends, colleagues and sympathizers are expected to gather to pay their last respects.
Mary Habila’s death has remained one of the country’s most discussed stories after it emerged that she died at the private residence of Minister of Works David Umahi in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
Across social media and other public platforms, thousands of Nigerians have expressed grief while calling on authorities to ensure a thorough, transparent and independent investigation.
The incident generated even greater public attention following reports alleging that the physiotherapist’s body was found unclothed when it was removed from the residence. Those claims have intensified calls for investigators to establish exactly what happened before her death.
Human rights advocates, civil society organizations and concerned citizens have continued to urge law enforcement agencies to conduct a credible investigation capable of addressing public concerns and ensuring justice.
Police authorities have maintained that the exact cause of Mary Habila’s death has not yet been established.
Investigators say an autopsy and other forensic examinations are expected to determine what led to her death.
The outcome of the investigation is being closely watched because of the prominence of those connected to the case and the widespread public interest it has generated.
Minister of Works David Umahi has denied any involvement in the physiotherapist’s death.
He stated that Mary Habila was a physiotherapist who had been seconded from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences to the Federal Ministry of Works.
According to the minister, he personally requested a comprehensive autopsy to establish the true cause of death and has urged Nigerians to allow investigators to complete their work before drawing conclusions.
Umahi has also threatened legal action against individuals and groups he accused of spreading false information capable of damaging his reputation.
As preparations for Mary Habila’s burial gather pace, public attention remains fixed on the ongoing investigation.
Many Nigerians say the late physiotherapist deserves not only a dignified farewell but also a thorough and transparent account of the events leading to her death.
With her burial now set for July 17, her family hopes to lay her to rest, while many across the country continue to await the outcome of investigations that could provide long-awaited answers.
