The family of Mary Habila, the 25-year-old nurse who died at the residence of Works Minister David Umahi, has said she had a pre-existing heart condition and died from cardiac arrest.
Habila was buried on Friday in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In her burial programme, the family said Habila had been diagnosed with a hole in her heart but remained hopeful despite her health challenges.
“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 family said.
The family said her condition later became critical despite medical treatment, prayers and support from loved ones. She subsequently died following a cardiac arrest.
“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,” it said.
Habila died on June 27 at Umahi’s residence in Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, where she was attached to the minister’s medical team.
Her death drew public attention, with calls for an investigation into what happened.
Umahi asked the Ebonyi State Police Command to conduct an autopsy and requested that her remains not be released until the examination was completed.
The family rejected the request, saying it did not want an autopsy.
The police later said it would conduct one to determine the cause of death despite the objection.
In July, SOKAPU filed a N20 billion suit against Umahi, alleging a breach of duty of care while Habila was in the minister’s custody.
The family’s account has now stated that Habila had a heart condition and died following cardiac arrest.
