Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, has denied any involvement in the death of Miss Mary Habila, stressing that an autopsy must be carried out to clear his name, even though the deceased’s family has objected to the procedure on religious grounds.
Speaking to journalists during a press conference on Thursday, the minister said anyone linking him to Habila’s death — a young woman he described as his daughter — would answer to God.
Umahi expressed sadness that the tragedy was being politicized, alleging that some individuals were exploiting the situation to make unreasonable demands and tarnish his reputation. He disclosed that he has directed his lawyers to pursue a cyberstalking case against an online platform accused of defamatory reporting, with legal proceedings to begin after Habila’s burial.
The former Ebonyi State governor said he has written to the Inspector General of Police requesting that the case be transferred to Abuja for proper investigation. He maintained that Habila’s body would not be released for burial until an autopsy is conducted.
Citing an account from Habila’s friend and her medical records with a Turkish hospital, Umahi said she most likely died from a nosebleed.
He also corrected earlier reports describing her as a physiotherapist, clarifying that she was a nurse — one he described as dedicated and difficult to replace.
Habila died at Umahi’s residence in Ebonyi State, and her body is currently at a morgue.
