The Ebonyi State Police Command has announced plans to engage a pathologist to conduct a post-mortem examination on the body of Mary Habila, a physiotherapist who died at the Uburu residence of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi. Despite objections from the deceased's family, the police maintain that the autopsy is essential to establish the actual cause of death.
Police Confirm Autopsy Plan
Joshua Ukandu, the police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. Ukandu, a superintendent of police, said the command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Detectives have visited the scene and obtained statements from relevant persons. He stated, “The Command is set to engage the services of a pathologist to conduct a post-mortem examination that will help determine the cause of death and support the ongoing inquiry.”
Ms Habila, who was attached to Mr Umahi, was brought dead to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital in Uburu on 27 June. Premium Times earlier reported the incident.
Family Rejects Autopsy
Although Ms Habila's family had rejected an autopsy, the police spokesperson insisted that the procedure would go ahead because of its necessity. The family's position was earlier reported in a Premium Times article titled “Why we rejected an autopsy on Mary Habila despite a controversial death — Family.”
Details of the Incident
Ukandu recalled that the police command received a distress call from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ohaozara Division on 27 June. The DPO reported a medical emergency involving Ms Habila, which required his presence at the university teaching hospital. On arrival, the DPO was informed by hospital authorities that Ms Habila had been brought in dead. He immediately briefed the Commissioner of Police, who directed that the matter be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The police have assured the public that the investigation is ongoing and that all necessary steps will be taken to uncover the truth behind Ms Habila's death. The autopsy is expected to provide crucial evidence to support the inquiry.
