Mary Habila: Family Rejects Autopsy as Police Insist on Probe

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The family of Mary Habila, the physiotherapist whose death has attracted national attention, has reportedly declined the request for an autopsy, even as the Ebonyi State Police Command maintains that a post-mortem examination remains necessary to establish the exact cause of her death.

The development comes as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, which occurred at the residence of Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State.

Police Say Investigation Is Ongoing

According to Gossip News Now, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed that detectives have already commenced a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

Authorities explained that officers visited the location where the incident occurred, gathered initial evidence, and interviewed individuals considered relevant to the ongoing inquiry.

How The Incident Was Reported

Police disclosed that the matter first came to their attention on June 27, 2026, after the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ohaozara Division received an emergency report concerning Mary Habila.

When officers arrived at the David Umahi Federal Teaching Hospital, Uburu, hospital officials informed them that the physiotherapist had already been confirmed dead.

Following the briefing, the case was immediately escalated to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on the directive of the Commissioner of Police to ensure a detailed investigation.

Victim Was Part Of Minister’s Medical Team

Preliminary findings from investigators indicate that Mary Habila travelled to Uburu alongside another medical professional as part of the healthcare team assigned to Senator David Umahi.

Police said she later died inside a room located within the compound of the minister’s residence before she was taken to the hospital.

Investigators are now working to establish the events leading up to her death and determine what transpired before the medical emergency occurred.

Family Declines Autopsy Request

Despite the ongoing investigation, members of Mary Habila’s family have reportedly expressed reservations about allowing an autopsy to be carried out on her remains.

However, police authorities insist that the examination is a vital part of the investigative process because of the circumstances surrounding the death.

Officials noted that the presence of the deceased’s relatives—or an authorised representative—will be required before the post-mortem examination can proceed.

In explaining their position, the police indicated that obtaining medical findings through an autopsy would provide scientific evidence capable of supporting the overall investigation and helping establish the precise cause of death.

Police Promise Transparency

The Ebonyi State Police Command assured members of the public that the investigation would be handled professionally, fairly, and without bias.

Authorities added that updates would be released as new findings emerge, emphasizing that every aspect of the case would be carefully examined before any conclusions are reached.

Analysis: Autopsy Could Be Central To Determining What Happened

The disagreement between the deceased’s family and investigators highlights one of the most sensitive aspects of suspicious death investigations. While families may object to post-mortem examinations for personal, cultural, or religious reasons, law enforcement agencies often consider autopsies essential where questions remain unanswered.

For investigators, the medical examination could provide crucial forensic evidence that clarifies the cause and manner of Mary Habila’s death. The outcome of the police investigation is therefore expected to play a significant role in addressing public concerns and determining whether any further legal action becomes necessary.