The family of late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has revealed that she died from cardiac arrest after living with a heart condition caused by a hole in her heart.
Habila, who was buried in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Friday, August 21, was 25 years old when she died on June 27, 2026.
In a brief biography released by the family, they disclosed that Habila had been diagnosed with a hole in her heart and that her condition became critical despite medical treatment, prayers and support from loved ones.
The family said she eventually died following a cardiac arrest.
Habila was reportedly found unresponsive at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State, where she worked as his personal nurse. She was taken to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where she was confirmed dead.
Her death had generated widespread controversy, with the circumstances surrounding it prompting calls for an autopsy and further investigation.
However, the family’s latest account identified her longstanding heart condition and subsequent cardiac arrest as the cause of her death, countering earlier speculation of foul play.
Born on September 18, 2000, Habila was described by her family as sincere, respectful, obedient, loving and jovial. She was raised in the Deeper Life Bible Church, where she participated in the children’s choir and later the youth church.
She worked as a Community Health Extension Worker at Favoured Ground Clinic in Buka Sidi, Lafia, Nasarawa State, before joining Cherry Hills Pharmacy and Stores in Gwarinpa, Abuja.
The family said she later became a personal nurse to Umahi after meeting him through her work in Abuja.
“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 said.
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