The family of late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has disclosed that she had been living with a heart condition caused by a hole in her heart before her death in June 2026.
Habila, who was 25, was buried in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Friday, August 21, following months of controversy over the circumstances surrounding her death.
In a biography released as part of her funeral arrangements, the family provided details about Habila’s upbringing, education, career and health challenges.
The family said her condition eventually became critical despite medical treatment and the support of relatives and loved ones, leading to a cardiac arrest.
“Mary Habila lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart,” the family stated.
“Despite medical care and the prayers and support of her family and loved ones, her condition became critical. She sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.”
Habila was born on September 18, 2000, and hailed from Nok in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Her family described her as a “very sincere, respectful, obedient, loving and jovial person”, noting that she was cherished by her parents, church members and those around her.
She was raised in the Deeper Life Bible Church, where her father serves as a pastor. She reportedly participated in the church’s children’s choir before becoming involved in the youth church.
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Professionally, Habila worked as a Community Health Extension Worker at Favoured Ground Clinic in Buka Sidi, Lafia, Nasarawa State. She later moved to Cherry Hills Pharmacy and Stores in Gwarinpa, Abuja.
The family said her career eventually led to her working as a personal nurse to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, after she met him through her professional activities in Abuja.
Habila died on June 27, 2026, after she was found unresponsive at Umahi’s residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
Her death generated public attention, with questions raised about what had happened before she was found unresponsive.
The Ebonyi State Police Command had confirmed receiving a distress call over a medical emergency involving Habila. She was subsequently taken to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The circumstances surrounding her death prompted calls for further investigation, while both the public and the minister sought an autopsy. The family initially objected to the examination.
With the family now providing its account of her medical history, it said her heart condition and subsequent cardiac arrest were responsible for her death.
“Though her life was short, Mary will always be remembered for her strength in the face of adversity, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone blessed to know her,” the family added.