The Ebonyi State Police Command says it will go ahead with a post-mortem examination on Mary Habila, a 26-year-old physiotherapist who died at the Uburu residence of Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, even though her family is against it.
In a statement dated July 15, 2026 and signed by Police Public Relations Officer SP Joshua Ukandu, the command said the autopsy is critical to establishing the actual cause of death.
Police said they were first alerted on June 27 after the DPO of Ohaozara Division received a distress call about a medical emergency involving Habila. By the time officers arrived at David Umahi Federal Teaching Hospital, Uburu, hospital staff had confirmed she was brought in dead. The case was then moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department.
According to preliminary findings, Habila and a colleague were part of the medical team assigned to the minister and had traveled with him to his hometown in Uburu. Police say she died in a room within the minister’s compound.
Detectives have visited the scene and taken statements, the statement added. The command also said it plans to engage a pathologist for the forensic examination.
However, Habila’s family has said they do not want an autopsy performed. Police responded that given the sensitive nature of the case, the procedure is “indispensable.” They added they are waiting for the family or an authorized representative to be present before proceeding.
“The Ebonyi State Police Command assures the public of a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation,” the statement said.
The dispute comes after legal advice from the Ebonyi State Director of Public Prosecutions, J.U. Chukwu. In the advice, the DPP noted that evidence showed Habila was alone when found and appeared healthy before traveling to Uburu. The DPP described that she was found “lifeless on the floor of her apartment naked with blood stain on her nose and mouth,” and said only a post-mortem could answer what caused the sudden death. The DPP however left it to police discretion whether to proceed or respect the family’s wishes.
Habila died on June 27 at the minister’s residence. The circumstances have drawn public attention and calls for an independent probe. Police say the investigation is ongoing and further updates will be provided.
