Family says Mary Habila died of cardiac arrest after long-term hole-in-heart condition

The family of the late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has confirmed that she died of cardiac arrest after living with a congenital heart condition.Habila, who was diagnosed with a hole in her heart, passed away on June 27, 2026, at the age of 25. She was laid to rest in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on August 21, following months of public speculation surrounding her death.In a biography released during her burial, the family recounted her childhood, education, career, and health struggles. They explained that despite medical care and the support of loved ones, her condition worsened until it led to cardiac arrest.“Mary lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart. Despite medical care and prayers, her condition became critical. She sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her,” the family stated.Born on September 18, 2000, Habila was described as sincere, respectful, and jovial. Raised in the Deeper Life Bible Church where her father is a pastor, she was active in the children’s choir and later the youth church.Professionally, she worked as a Community Health Extension Worker in Nasarawa State before moving to Abuja, where she joined Cherry Hills Pharmacy and later served as a personal nurse to the Minister of Works, David Umahi.Her death drew widespread attention after she was found unresponsive at Umahi’s residence in Ebonyi State. Police confirmed she was rushed to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Initial controversy prompted calls for an autopsy, but the family later clarified that her long-standing heart condition was the cause.The family concluded: “Though her life was short, Mary will always be remembered for her strength in adversity, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone blessed to know her.”

The family of the late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has revealed that the deceased lived with a heart condition caused by a hole in her heart before her death in June 2026. Mary was buried in her hometown of Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Friday, August 21, 2026, following […] Mary Habila died of cardiac arrest after living with hole in her heart – Family confirms