Sadness and confusion have engulfed the palatial country home of the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. This is as a result of the sudden death of a physiotherapist, Ms Mary Habila, in the premises.

As the controversy over Ms Habila’s death swelled, Umahi, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Francis Nwaze, cautioned against speculations by tale bearers who have dubbed the death as mysterious.

The statement issued this Saturday morning, July 11, 2026, reads: "The attention of the Media Office of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Nweze Umahi, has been drawn to a publication by a publication concerning the unfortunate passing of Miss Mary Habila in Uburu, Ebonyi State, alleging that the circumstances surrounding her death were shrouded in secrecy.

"The Honourable Minister received the news with profound shock and sadness and has since extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

"For the avoidance of doubt, immediately the unfortunate incident occurred, appropriate emergency steps were taken. Medical personnel, including the Chief Medical Director of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, were contacted without delay, while the Nigeria Police was promptly notified in accordance with the law.

"Following confirmation of Miss Habila's passing, the Honourable Minister personally received her parents, conveyed his sincere condolences, and advised that an autopsy be conducted to scientifically establish the exact cause of death. At the time, however, the family declined the recommendation.

"It is important to clarify that Miss Mary Habila and Miss Anita Baski are employees of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, who had been on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works as physiotherapists for the past three years until the unfortunate passing of Miss Habila.

"Following the recent developments and in the interest of ensuring that the truth is established beyond doubt, the Honourable Minister has again reiterated his position that an autopsy must be conducted. He remains convinced that this is the most credible and responsible path to resolving all questions surrounding the unfortunate incident.

"We therefore urge the public to exercise restraint, refrain from speculation or premature conclusions, and allow the relevant authorities to carry out their responsibilities without interference.

"At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of the deceased, and we pray that God grants them the strength to bear this irreparable loss."