He emphasized that he suspected no foul play and rejected political implications surrounding the incident. Umahi described Habila, who had been under his employment for three years and had health issues for which he funded treatment, as “like a daughter” to him.
During a press conference, he clarified that Habila was employed by the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ebonyi State, countering reports that described her as a physiotherapist. The minister detailed the events leading to her death, stating that she had complained of nosebleeding during a conversation with her boyfriend shortly before losing contact. Habila had intended to take a bath before communication ceased, and when concerned parties checked on her, they found her deceased with the faucet still running.
Umahi expressed frustration at the speculation surrounding the situation, asserting that the guest house where Habila died is distanced from his personal living quarters. He voiced concern over politicizing her death and highlighted his emotional devastation, noting that she was a dedicated employee.
He also faced challenges in obtaining an autopsy due to the family’s cultural objections, despite his insistence that it should be conducted. Umahi has instructed that the investigation be escalated to the Inspector-General of Police to ensure thoroughness and involve dialogues with the family regarding the autopsy.
The minister claimed Habila had experienced similar nosebleed episodes in the past and called for the retrieval of phone records to corroborate the chronology of events leading to her death. He reiterated that there was no evidence of criminal activity observed and criticized the dissemination of unauthorized photographs taken at the mortuary that misrepresented the situation. Overall, he urged for sensitivity and respect around her unfortunate passing, while advocating for a proper investigation.
Umahi has committed to initiating legal action against media organisations that he accuses of disseminating false information and engaging in cyberbullying related to the death of a female nurse. He stated, “I have directed my lawyers to get across to those involved in cyberbullying this matter. We are going to test the law on that.” According to PUNCH reports, the nurse’s death has attracted significant public scrutiny due to reports and social media discourse questioning the circumstances of her passing at a government guest house associated with the Ministry of Works. This incident has led to demands from various groups for an independent investigation, while the police are actively pursuing the matter.
An essential autopsy, which investigators regard as critical for elucidating the precise cause of death, has yet to be conducted. This delay follows cultural objections purportedly voiced by the deceased’s family. As investigations by police continue, the case remains under close watch amid ongoing public interest and controversy.
