The circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila, a nurse attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, DUFUS, and on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, have become clearer following a sworn statement by her colleague and close friend, Anita Baaki.
Baaki, a physiotherapist from Benue State, said she was among members of staff who travelled from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24, for official duties under the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
According to her affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court, the staff members were accommodated in separate but adjoining rooms in a staff chalet located within the minister’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area.
She clarified that the building was designated for staff members and associates, not for the minister’s personal residence.
On the evening of June 26, she said, Habila returned after having her hair done, and stopped by Baaki’s room to show her the new hairstyle. The two chatted and joked before Habila said she was tired and intended to take a shower before going to bed.
“Mary told me she was tired and wanted to take a shower before sleeping. That was the last time I saw her alive,” Baaki stated.
The following morning, Baaki became concerned when Habila did not come out as usual. Repeated phone calls went unanswered, prompting her to knock on Habila’s door. Finding it locked from the inside and receiving no response, she alerted a domestic staff member to search the premises.
When Habila could not be found elsewhere, other staff members were informed, and the room was forced open. She was discovered lying unconscious on the floor near the door.
She was immediately taken to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where doctors confirmed that she was dead on arrival.
In her affidavit, Baaki stated that her testimony was given voluntarily and without coercion, emphasising that she was making the statement solely for official and investigative purposes.
