Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has urged the Inspector-General of Police to take over investigations into the controversial deaths of Mary Habila and Babatunde Tanimola, warning that both cases must not be “swept under the carpet.”
Falana also called for a speedy autopsy in Habila’s case and urged authorities to ensure transparent investigations into politically motivated killings in Osun State, arguing that every suspicious death deserves a thorough and independent probe.
The senior lawyer made the demands in a statement on Monday titled, “These Deaths Must Not Be Swept Under the Carpet.”
“The right to life is the most basic human right. Without it, other rights cannot be enjoyed by any person. On account of the sanctity of human life, the following cases of suspicious deaths must be thoroughly investigated”, Falana said.
Falana expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila, who was found dead and unclad on June 27, 2026, in a room at the country home of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
He noted that although Umahi has publicly denied any foul play, insisting that the deceased had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, Falana questioned the handling of the incident. He also criticised the delay in conducting an autopsy after the Nigeria Police Force rejected a request by Habila’s father to release the body for burial.
“Even though the Minister has denied any foul play or cover-up, stating she had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, the minister contaminated the scene of the incident by handling her phone to speak with her boyfriend.,
“In a sworn affidavit, the father of the deceased rejected an autopsy and requested the release of the body for burial. While the authorities of the Nigeria Police Force have turned down the request of the father of the deceased, they have failed to explain the delay in carrying out the autopsy,” Falana said.
While sympathising with the family, he maintained that suspicious deaths are matters of public interest. “The death of any citizen in suspicious circumstances is not a family affair. In view of the controversy surrounding the unfortunate death of Mary Habila, the Inspector-General of Police should take over the investigation. We equally call on the Nigerian Medical Association to ensure that the autopsy is conducted without any further delay.”Punch
