THE family of Mary Habila, the 25-year-old nurse who died at the residence of David Umahi, Minister of Works, has disclosed that she was diagnosed with a hole in her heart.
Habila was buried on Friday in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
News Point Nigeria reports that in the burial programme, which contained a brief biography of the deceased, Habila’s family said her condition became “critical” and, despite medical treatment and prayers, she later died following a “cardiac arrest”.
“Mary Habila lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart. Though she faced significant health challenges, she carried herself with courage, faith, and quiet resilience,” the biography reads.
“She remained hopeful and continued to touch the lives of those around her with her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit. Despite medical care and the prayers and support of her family and loved ones, her condition became critical. She sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
“Though her life was cut short, Mary will always be remembered for her strength in the face of adversity, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone blessed to know her. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
Habila died on June 27 at Umahi’s residence in Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, while being attached to the minister’s medical team.
Her death sparked widespread public interest, with calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Umahi had asked the Ebonyi State Police Command to conduct an autopsy on Habila’s body.
He also asked the police not to release her body to the family until the post-mortem examination was completed, saying it was necessary to establish the actual cause and circumstances of Habila’s death.
However, Habila’s family rejected the request, insisting they did not want an autopsy performed.
Subsequently, the Ebonyi Police Command said it would conduct an autopsy to ascertain the cause of her death despite opposition from her family.
In July, the Incorporated Trustees of the Southern Kaduna Peoples’ United Associations (SOKAPU) filed a N20 billion suit against the minister over the loss of life, alleging a breach of duty of care while the deceased was in his custody.