Human rights attorney Femi Falana has urged the Nigerian Federal Government to ensure that the deaths of Mary Habila, a domestic worker for Works Minister Dave Umahi, and Babatunde Tanimola are not ignored. Falana has requested that the Inspector-General of Police oversee the inquiries and expedite the autopsy process for Habila.
Addressing reports of politically influenced fatalities in Osun State, Falana emphasized that all questionable deaths require impartial and comprehensive investigations. In a public statement issued on Monday, he asserted that because the right to life is fundamental, these specific cases demand immediate attention.
Mary Habila was discovered dead and unclothed on June 27, 2026, at Minister Umahi’s residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State. Although the Minister maintains that Habila suffered from a pre-existing health condition and denies any wrongdoing, Falana expressed concern regarding the handling of the crime scene, noting that the Minister allegedly handled the victim’s phone.
Furthermore, Falana criticized the Nigeria Police Force for delaying the autopsy process. While Habila’s father initially filed an affidavit requesting the release of the body for burial, the police have denied this request but have simultaneously failed to conduct the necessary medical examination in a timely manner.
