According to the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP), the late Mary Habila was not featured in its official roster of registered physiotherapists after conducting checks with the necessary regulatory authorities.

The clarification comes as the public becomes increasingly interested in the circumstances surrounding her death.

In a statement posted on its official X account on Thursday, the professional organization stated that its verification revealed that the name “Mary Habila” was not in the database of licensed physiotherapists.

According to the NSP, the development emphasises the significance of validating professional credentials before classifying persons as members of regulated professions.

The society emphasised that public authorities and other stakeholders should describe a person’s professional standing based on official records rather than assumptions.

It further stated that issues about qualifications should be addressed through appropriate regulatory mechanisms rather than speculation.

The NSP further emphasised the need of respecting the integrity of regulated professions, stating that the public deserves accurate information and professionals deserve truthful depiction of their qualifications and identities.

Despite its clarification, the organization offered condolences to Habila’s family and loved ones, calling her death a devastating loss. It begged for her soul to rest in peace.

Mary Habila, 26, died on June 27 at a property associated with the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State, in a case that has sparked enormous public interest.

Umahi has denied any wrongdoing, claiming Habila was “like a daughter” to him and that there was no proof of foul conduct.

He stated that she had worked with him for years and had received financial assistance from him for previous medical treatments.

He also revealed that she purportedly complained of nose bleeding during a phone call with her partner shortly before being discovered dead.

The event has prompted various parties, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to demand an independent probe. Some have also requested the minister to resign down while police conduct their investigation.

An autopsy, supposed to help confirm the cause of death, has not yet been carried out following claimed objections from Habila’s family based on cultural beliefs. The police investigation into the case is still ongoing.