S/Kaduna Lawyers Demand Probe into Death of Miss Mary Habila at Minister Umahi’s Ebonyi Home
Forum lists 9 questions, warns against hurried burial, says autopsy and coroner inquest needed
By Our Correspondent
The Southern Kaduna Lawyers’ Forum, SKLF, has demanded an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the death of Miss Mary Habila, who died on 27 June 2026 at the Uburu residence of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, in Ohaozara LGA of Ebonyi State.
In a press statement issued Wednesday, the Forum described the circumstances of the death as “tragic and mysterious” with “conflicting and disturbing” reports, and called for an autopsy and coroner’s inquest before any burial is conducted.
SKLF said the probe must answer nine key questions, including how Miss Habila came to be at the Minister’s house, the exact time and date of death and when it was reported, the state of her body, who was present in the house that day, and the Minister’s whereabouts on 27 June.
The Forum also asked whether Miss Habila was a nurse or physiotherapist, when she travelled to Ebonyi, and the circumstances of her employment.
“We received with deep shock and profound sadness the news of the tragic and mysterious death of Miss Mary Habila,” the statement signed by Chairman, Dr. Solomon Musa, and Publicity Secretary, Solomon G. Yohanna, Esq., read.
“No family should have to bury a daughter under such mysterious and suspicious circumstances.”
The lawyers grounded their demand in Sections 14(2)(b) and 33 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which guarantee security of life and dignity of citizens. They warned that a hurried funeral “may further precipitate suspicion and mistrust by the populace on the circumstances of the deceased’s demise.”
On accountability, SKLF insisted that “no person, regardless of status, position, or affiliation, is above the law” and urged all persons with relevant information to cooperate with investigators.
The Forum said it demands copies of all investigation reports and will monitor proceedings to ensure “justice is not only done but must be seen to have been done.”
The group also disclosed it is “considering initiating legal proceedings as a resort to attainment of justice and equity in the scandalous matter.”
SKLF further called on the media and public to avoid speculation and respect the privacy of the grieving family while investigations proceed. It urged authorities to act with due diligence to “bring clarity to this matter and ensure that justice is served.”
Miss Habila’s death was first made public on 10 July 2026, about two weeks after the reported date of death, according to the Forum. The SKLF described her as a health practitioner and citizen entitled to full legal protection under Nigerian law.
The statement concluded with a call for peace and prayers: “May the soul of Miss Mary Habila rest in peace with the Almighty.”
Attempts to reach the Ministry of Works for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.
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