Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana calls on the Inspector-General of Police to take over investigations into the deaths of Mary Habila and Babatunde Tanimola and to ensure the cases are not ignored or covered up. In statements reported by multiple Nigerian outlets, Falana says the “right to life” requires thorough and independent probes into what he describes as suspicious deaths, including cases that may be politically motivated.
On Mary Habila’s death, outlets report that she is said to have been found dead and unclad on June 27, 2026, in a room at the home of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Falana questions how the matter is handled, noting that Umahi has publicly denied any foul play and said she had an existing medical condition and that the incident was reported to police. He also raises concerns about delays around an autopsy, including that Nigeria Police rejected a request by Habila’s father to release the body for burial.
Across the reports, Falana also urges faster, transparent actions and accountability in both cases, including Babatunde Tanimola’s death.
