The family of the late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has disclosed that she had been living with a congenital heart condition before her death.
It was revealed that the deceased was long diagnosed with a hole in her heart before her passing.
Habila, who died on June 27, 2026, at the age of 25, was buried in her hometown, Nok, in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Friday, August 21, amid lingering questions over the circumstances of her death.
In a brief biography released by the family as part of activities surrounding her burial, they said Habila’s health condition deteriorated despite medical attention, prayers and support from relatives and loved ones.
The family said she eventually suffered a cardiac arrest, which led to her death.
“Mary Habila lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart,” the family stated.
It added that her condition “became critical” despite efforts to manage it before she “sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest.”
The disclosure provides the family’s account of the cause of death after the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death had generated public concern and calls for investigation.
Habila was reportedly found unresponsive at the residence of the minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ebonyi State, where she worked as a personal nurse.
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 controversy surrounding the circumstances of her death had also led to calls for an autopsy, with both the public and the minister requesting further examination. The family had initially objected to the procedure.
Her remains were eventually released to the family, paving the way for her burial.
Beyond the circumstances of her death, the family’s biography portrayed Habila as a young woman who was deeply committed to her faith, career and relationships.
Born on September 18, 2000, she was raised in the Deeper Life Bible Church, where her father serves as a pastor. She was actively involved in the church’s children’s choir before later joining the youth church.
Her family described her as sincere, respectful, obedient, loving and jovial, adding that she was cherished by her parents, church members and others who knew her.
Habila began her professional career as a Community Health Extension Worker at Favoured Ground Clinic in Buka Sidi, Lafia, Nasarawa State. She later worked at Cherry Hills Pharmacy and Stores in Gwarinpa, Abuja.
According to the family, her work in Abuja eventually brought her into contact with Umahi, after which she became his personal nurse.
The family said her short life was marked by resilience and compassion, describing her as someone whose impact would remain with those who knew her.
“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.
