The family of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has announced her burial arrangements following her death at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State.
According to the family, Habila, who was born on September 18, 2000, died on June 27, 2026. Her funeral service is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Family members, friends, colleagues, church members and sympathisers are expected to attend the service to pay their final respects.
Habila’s death has attracted widespread public attention after it emerged that she died at the minister’s official residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State. Reports circulating after the incident alleged that her body was found unclothed when it was removed from the residence, prompting calls for a transparent and thorough investigation.
Minister Umahi has confirmed that Habila died at his residence. He explained that she was a physiotherapist seconded from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences to the Federal Ministry of Works. The minister also disclosed that he requested a comprehensive autopsy and urged the public to allow investigators to complete their work.
The Nigeria Police Force has maintained that an autopsy will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
Police sources familiar with the investigation said detectives are working to establish a detailed timeline of events, including identifying those present at the residence, the actions taken after Habila was found unresponsive, and when emergency medical assistance was requested.
Umahi has denied any wrongdoing and warned that he would take legal action against individuals he accused of spreading false information about the incident.
Investigations remain ongoing as police continue gathering witness statements and forensic evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
