Physiotherapist Found Dead, Naked at Umahi’s Ebonyi residence as Sowore Demands Coroner’s Inquest

Uburu, Ebonyi - The death of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist attached to Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Works, has sparked intense public scrutiny and calls for a transparent investigation after her body was reportedly discovered naked at the residence of Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

According to reports, Habila was found unresponsive in her room at the minister’s compound. Sources indicate her family forced open the door after becoming concerned about her well-being.

Medical personnel from the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH) were summoned and rushed her to the hospital, but resuscitation efforts failed.

The Nigerian Police were notified immediately.

Exclusive details published by SaharaReporters revealed that Habila was found without clothing when her body was removed from the residence.

Photographs obtained by the outlet reportedly showed her in that state, with additional accounts mentioning blood from her mouth, fueling speculation about the circumstances of her death.

Minister Umahi has broken his silence on the matter, denying any cover-up and describing the incident as unfortunate.

He stated that Habila, who had worked with the ministry for about three years alongside a colleague, was providing physiotherapy services at his residence.

In multiple statements, Umahi emphasized:
• The family reported the matter to the police.

• He personally met Habila’s parents to convey condolences.

• He advised and has repeatedly called for an autopsy to scientifically determine the cause of death.

Umahi has threatened legal action against individuals and media outlets circulating what he describes as false and defamatory reports aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

Police investigators are said to be disputing some aspects of the public narrative and are insisting on a full autopsy before releasing the body. Reports suggest attempts to release the body for burial have been resisted due to the active investigation and high public interest.

There are also claims that some family members may have faced pressure regarding forensic procedures.

The family has announced burial arrangements, but police authorities continue to maintain that an autopsy is necessary as part of the ongoing probe.

The case has generated significant outrage and discussion on social media, with many Nigerians demanding answers about how a young professional died under these circumstances.

Activists, including Omoyele Sowore, have called for a coroner’s inquest before any burial. Questions persist about the exact timeline, who was present, and whether foul play was involved.

As investigations continue, no official cause of death has been released. The incident remains under review by the police Criminal Investigation Department.

Meanwhile, the presidential candidate of the Action Alliance, Omoyele Sowore, has called for a full coroner’s inquest into the death of physiotherapist Mary Habila, insisting that no burial should proceed until a thorough forensic investigation, including an autopsy, is completed.

This story is developing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as forensic processes advance.

Public calls for accountability