Mary Habila’s family petitions IGP for release of her remains

Mary Habila’s family has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, demanding the immediate release of her remains for burial. The family, represented by their lawyer, Kaile Yusuf, submitted the petition at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Friday. They allege that despite fulfilling all necessary police requirements, the body has remained in official custody for nearly two weeks. Ms Habila, a nurse who died on 27 June in Ebonyi State, is believed to have passed away at the private residence of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area. Her remains have been under police control since then. The family’s lawyer stated that they have completed the procedural steps required for the body’s release but have received no confirmation of approval. He emphasized that the delay was unwarranted and suggested that the situation might be being used for political purposes. Mr Yusuf also corrected public misconceptions regarding Ms Habila’s professional background, clarifying that she was a qualified nurse, not a physiotherapist. He noted that she had previously worked at David Umahi University of Health Sciences and was employed by the minister’s office for approximately three years. Supporting documents, including her appointment letter and salary records, were presented during the briefing. During the press conference, Tanko Habila, the deceased’s father, expressed deep sorrow over the prolonged detention of his daughter’s body. He reiterated that the family does not seek an autopsy and insists on a dignified burial based on personal, cultural, and traditional beliefs. He also denied any accusations of wrongdoing related to his daughter’s death, stating that the family maintains good relations with her former workplace. A colleague, Anita Baki, confirmed that Ms Habila’s death was sudden and clarified her role as a physiotherapist, although this contradicts earlier statements from the family lawyer. The family has taken legal action against the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi, alleging unlawful retention of the body. Their petition calls for the case to be transferred to the Force Headquarters for further review and for disciplinary measures against any officers found to have violated procedures. Mr Yusuf accused unnamed individuals of attempting to politicize the issue, though he did not specify which parties were involved. The family has consistently rejected repeated requests for an autopsy, maintaining that such a procedure would be inappropriate given their religious and cultural practices. The situation has drawn attention from human rights groups, with one organization recently calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Habila’s death. While the police have not officially responded to the petition, the ongoing standoff highlights broader concerns about the treatment of deceased individuals in custody and the transparency of administrative processes. Family members continue to wait for a resolution, hoping for a prompt and respectful return of their loved one’s remains for burial. The case underscores the intersection of legal procedures, cultural sensitivities, and bureaucratic delays in matters involving the deceased. As the family awaits a response from authorities, the emotional toll on the bereaved continues to mount. The outcome of this petition will likely determine whether the family receives the closure they seek through a proper funeral rites. For now, the remains of Mary Habila remain in police custody, pending further action.