Anita Baaki, a close friend and colleague of the late Mary Habila, has narrated the events leading up to the young health worker’s death, revealing that she appeared cheerful and healthy just hours before she was found unconscious.
The account is contained in a sworn affidavit filed before the Ebonyi State High Court as investigations into Habila’s death continue.
Habila, who was attached to the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences and was on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Works, died on June 27, 2026, while on an official assignment in Ebonyi State.
Friend recounts last conversation with Mary Habila
In the affidavit, Anita Baaki, a physiotherapist from Benue State, said she travelled from Abuja to Ebonyi alongside Habila and other ministry officials on June 24 for an official engagement under the supervision of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
According to Baaki, the officials were accommodated in separate but adjoining rooms inside a staff chalet located within the minister’s country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
She clarified that the chalet was reserved for ministry personnel and associates and was not the minister’s private residence.
Baaki said she last saw Habila alive on the evening of June 26 after she returned from getting her hair done.
She recalled that Habila stopped by her room to show her new hairstyle, after which they chatted and joked together before she retired for the night.
According to the affidavit, Habila said she intended to take a shower before going to bed because she was tired.
How Mary Habila was found
Baaki said she became concerned the following morning when Habila did not emerge from her room as expected.
She explained that several attempts to reach her by telephone were unsuccessful. After repeated knocks on the door went unanswered, she alerted a domestic staff member to help search the premises.
When Habila could not be located elsewhere, other staff members were informed and the room, which was reportedly locked from the inside, was forced open.
Baaki stated that Habila was found lying unconscious on the floor near the entrance to the room.
She was rushed to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel reportedly confirmed that she was dead on arrival.
Investigation continues
Baaki said she made the statement voluntarily to assist investigators in establishing the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death.
The case remains under police investigation.
Meanwhile, lawyers representing the Minister of Works have continued to call for a comprehensive forensic autopsy to determine the exact cause of Habila’s death before her remains are released for burial.
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