Fresh details have emerged about the last words of Mary Habila, the physiotherapist attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, following her death in Ebonyi State.
The account was provided by Anita Baaki, Habila’s close friend and colleague, in a sworn affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court as investigations into the incident continue.
Colleague says they travelled together on official assignment
According to the affidavit, Baaki, a physiotherapist from Benue State, travelled with Habila and other officials of the Federal Ministry of Works from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24, 2026, for an official assignment under the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
She stated that the team was accommodated in separate but adjoining rooms in a staff chalet located within the minister’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area.
Baaki clarified that the chalet was reserved for ministry staff and associates and was not the minister’s personal residence.
Friend recalls final conversation with Habila
Baaki said she last saw Habila alive on the evening of June 26 after the nurse returned from having her hair done.
According to her, Habila stopped by her room to show off her new hairstyle before they spent some time chatting and joking together.
Recalling their final conversation, Baaki said:
“Mary told me she was tired and wanted to take a shower before sleeping. That was the last time I saw her alive.”
How Habila was found
Baaki explained that she became concerned the following morning when Habila did not leave her room as expected.
She said repeated phone calls went unanswered, prompting her to knock on the door. When there was still no response and the room remained locked from the inside, she alerted a domestic staff member to help search the premises.
After Habila could not be located elsewhere, other staff members were informed and the room was eventually forced open.
According to the affidavit, Habila was found lying unconscious on the floor near the entrance of the room.
She was immediately rushed to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where doctors confirmed that she was dead on arrival.
