A sworn affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court by physiotherapist Anita Baaki has provided new details about the final moments of nurse Mary Habila, who died at a staff chalet within the country home of Minister of Works David Umahi in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area.
Colleague Recounts Last Sighting
Baaki, a physiotherapist from Benue State, stated in her affidavit that she was part of a group of staff members who travelled from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24, 2026, on official assignment under Minister Umahi. The group was lodged in rooms at a staff chalet within the minister's country home, which Baaki described as designated for staff members and associates rather than the minister's personal use.
On the evening of June 26, Habila returned to the chalet after getting her hair done and called in at Baaki's room to show off her new hairstyle. According to Baaki, they chatted and laughed before Habila mentioned she was tired and planned to shower and sleep. 'Mary told me she was tired and wanted to take a shower before sleeping. That was the last time I saw her alive,' Baaki stated in the affidavit.
Discovery of Unconscious Nurse
The following morning, Baaki grew uneasy when Habila did not emerge at her usual time. After several unanswered phone calls, she knocked on Habila's door and received no reply. Baaki then asked a domestic staff member to check around the premises, but Habila was nowhere to be found outside her room. Other staff members were alerted, and the room was eventually forced open. Habila was found lying unconscious on the floor close to the door.
She was rushed to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where doctors certified her dead on arrival. Baaki emphasized in her statement that she gave the testimony of her own free will, without any form of pressure or coercion, and that the statement was submitted strictly for official and investigative purposes.
Police Investigation and Autopsy Demand
The Ebonyi State Police Command launched a criminal investigation after the death of 26-year-old nurse Mary Habila at Umahi's residence on June 27, 2026. Police stated that Habila was part of the minister's medical team and died in a room within his compound. The deceased's family initially refused an autopsy request, but the command insisted that the post-mortem examination was necessary to determine the cause of death.
Earlier, the family announced funeral arrangements for Habila, while the minister requested an autopsy. Key questions about her death remain unanswered as investigations continue.
