Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The father of the late Mary Habila, Wisdom Habila, has publicly explained why his family is opposed to conducting an autopsy on their daughter’s body, saying the decision is rooted in cultural beliefs, religious values, and the urgent desire to give her a dignified burial.
Speaking in an emotional interview captured on video, Wisdom Habila said the family has accepted the painful reality of their daughter’s death and believes prolonging the burial process through an autopsy would only deepen their grief.
The development comes amid ongoing investigations by law enforcement authorities, who have insisted that a post-mortem examination is necessary to establish the exact cause and circumstances surrounding Mary Habila’s death.
Family Appeals for Immediate Burial
According to Wisdom Habila, the family’s foremost priority is to lay their daughter to rest as quickly as possible in accordance with their traditions.
He explained that in their culture, prolonged delays before burial are discouraged except under exceptional circumstances.
“Our culture does not encourage keeping the body for too long. We have accepted what has happened and want our daughter buried peacefully,” he said.
The grieving father added that the family is not trying to obstruct justice but believes that enough is already known about the circumstances surrounding Mary’s death.
He stressed that the emotional burden on family members continues to grow each day the burial is delayed.
Police Maintain Autopsy Is Necessary
Despite the family’s position, investigators have maintained that an autopsy remains an important part of the investigation.
Police officials argue that determining the medical cause of death is critical in establishing whether any criminal offence was committed and ensuring that justice is served.
A forensic examination can provide scientific evidence that may either confirm or challenge existing accounts of how a person died.
Authorities have indicated that investigations will continue in line with legal procedures while engaging with the family over the next steps.
Balancing Culture and Justice
The case has once again highlighted the delicate balance between respecting cultural and religious beliefs and fulfilling legal obligations during criminal investigations.
In many parts of Nigeria, families often prefer immediate burial, particularly where religious or traditional customs require it.
However, legal experts note that when a death is considered suspicious or unexplained, security agencies are empowered to request an autopsy to obtain evidence that may be vital during prosecution or judicial proceedings.
Human rights advocates have also observed that autopsies can protect both families and suspects by providing independent medical findings rather than relying solely on witness accounts.
Public Reactions
The video interview has generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy for the Habila family while acknowledging the importance of a thorough investigation.
Some commenters argued that the family’s wishes should be respected, particularly given their grief and cultural beliefs.
Others insisted that allowing an autopsy is necessary to eliminate doubts and ensure accountability if any wrongdoing occurred.
The differing opinions reflect the broader national conversation about balancing personal convictions with the demands of the justice system.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not announced any final decision regarding whether an autopsy will eventually be carried out.
Police say investigations remain active and have urged members of the public to avoid speculation while allowing investigators to complete their work.
Meanwhile, the Habila family continues preparations for Mary’s burial, hoping that the matter can be resolved without further delays.
As the case unfolds, many Nigerians are awaiting the outcome of the investigation, which is expected to determine the next legal steps and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death.
The incident has renewed discussions on the role of forensic investigations in Nigeria, the importance of respecting bereaved families, and the need to ensure that justice is pursued transparently whenever deaths occur under circumstances requiring official scrutiny.
Sources: Police statements; interviews with the Habila family; credible Nigerian media reports.
