Minister of Works David Umahi has responded to reports surrounding the death of Mary Habila, a nurse who reportedly died at his residence in Ebonyi State, insisting there was no attempt to conceal the incident.
Speaking on Sunday while inspecting the Ebonyi section of the Calabar–Ebonyi–Benue–Nasarawa–Abuja Superhighway, Umahi said the matter was immediately reported to the police and that the deceased was rushed to hospital after family members discovered her unconscious.
According to the minister, it was Habila’s relatives who became concerned after she failed to respond, forcing open her room before contacting medical personnel from the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH).
“The family broke the girl’s door, called doctors from DUFUTH, who took her to hospital and did everything to revive her, but failed. The family reported the matter to the police, so where is the secrecy?” Umahi said.
The minister disclosed that he had directed that an autopsy be carried out to determine the exact cause of death. He added that the examination would be conducted with the consent and involvement of the deceased’s parents.
Umahi also dismissed allegations circulating on social media that the circumstances surrounding the nurse’s death were being covered up. He described Habila as a committed staff member of the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital.
The minister warned that legal action would be taken against individuals spreading what he described as false and misleading reports about the incident. He said he had already instructed his legal team to pursue the matter.
He further revealed that Habila’s parents, who are currently in Ebonyi State, are expected to address journalists and may also institute legal proceedings against those responsible for circulating what they consider false information.
Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the nurse’s death are ongoing, while the planned autopsy is expected to provide further clarity on the cause of her death.
