TD The Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP) has stated that the late Mary Habila, the young woman whose death at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has generated public attention, is not listed in its database of registered physiotherapists.
The society disclosed this in an official statement issued after conducting what it described as a verification through the appropriate regulatory channels.
According to the NSP, its findings contradict claims circulating in some reports that Habila was a physiotherapist who had been seconded to the Federal Ministry of Works.
Verification Found No Record of Registration
In its statement, the professional body said it searched the official records of registered physiotherapists and found no evidence that the deceased was licensed to practise as a physiotherapist in Nigeria.
“Following verification through the appropriate regulatory channels, the name ‘Mary Habila,’ as stated, does not appear on the database of registered physiotherapists,” the statement read.
The society noted that the verification was conducted using official regulatory records, stressing that professional status should always be established through recognised regulatory processes rather than assumptions or public assertions.
Calls for Due Diligence by Public Officials
The NSP said the development highlights the importance of accuracy and due diligence by public officials when identifying individuals as members of regulated professions.
According to the organisation, government officials bear a responsibility to ensure that information released to the public is accurate and verifiable.
“This development underscores why it is essential that public officials, especially those occupying the highest levels of government, exercise due diligence before presenting or associating individuals with regulated professions,” the statement said.
It added that professional identity is “not a matter of assumption or public perception” but one that must be supported by verifiable facts.
The society maintained that where questions arise concerning an individual’s professional qualifications, they should be resolved through the appropriate regulatory authorities rather than speculation or unverified claims.
Professional Integrity Must Be Protected
The NSP reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the physiotherapy profession, stating that regulated professions depend on accurate representation of qualifications and credentials.
It urged all stakeholders to respect established regulatory processes and ensure that professional identities are represented truthfully.
“The public deserves accuracy, and professionals deserve to have their qualifications and identities represented truthfully,” the statement added.
Condolences to Family
Despite the clarification regarding Habila’s professional status, the society expressed sympathy to her family and loved ones.
The NSP said it remained mindful of the tragedy surrounding her death and extended its condolences to those affected.
“Finally, while it is important to establish the facts, we must not lose sight of the human tragedy at the heart of this matter.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased, and pray that her soul rests in perfect peace.
“May they find strength and comfort during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Background
Mary Habila died on June 27, 2026, at a residence belonging to Minister of Works David Umahi in Uburu, Ebonyi State, while reportedly attached to the minister’s official team.
The circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation by the Ebonyi State Police Command.
“The case has attracted widespread public interest, with calls from political leaders, civil society organisations and members of the public for a transparent investigation.
The latest statement by the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy adds a new dimension to the public discussion by challenging claims regarding Habila’s reported professional background.
However, the organisation’s clarification relates only to her registration status as a physiotherapist.
It does not address the ongoing police investigation into the circumstances of her death.
