Falana Urges Federal Government to Ensure Thorough Probe Into Mary Habila’s Death

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has called on the Federal Government to ensure that the deaths of Mary Habila, a domestic worker linked to the residence of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and Babatunde Tanimola are thoroughly investigated, warning against any attempt to conceal the circumstances surrounding the cases.

Falana made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday titled, “These Deaths Must Not Be Swept Under the Carpet.” He stressed that every suspicious death deserves an independent and transparent investigation, regardless of the status of those involved.

According to him, the constitutional right to life remains the most fundamental human right and must be protected through credible law enforcement and judicial processes.

Falana expressed concern over the death of Mary Habila, who was reportedly found dead and unclothed on June 27, 2026, in a room at the country home of the Minister of Works in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

While acknowledging that Umahi had publicly denied any foul play, explaining that the deceased had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, Falana questioned aspects of the handling of the incident.

He alleged that the scene may have been compromised after the minister reportedly handled the deceased’s mobile phone to communicate with her boyfriend before investigators concluded their work.

Falana also criticised the delay in conducting an autopsy despite the Nigeria Police Force declining a request by Habila’s father for the release of her body for burial.

According to him, although the father had submitted a sworn affidavit rejecting an autopsy and requesting immediate burial, the authorities had refused the application without explaining why the post-mortem examination had not yet been carried out.

The senior lawyer urged the Inspector-General of Police to take over the investigation to guarantee transparency and public confidence in the process.

He further called for impartial investigations into other politically related killings, including incidents in Osun State, insisting that justice must not depend on the identity or influence of those connected to any case.

Falana maintained that only transparent investigations and accountability can strengthen public trust in Nigeria’s justice system and uphold the constitutional right to life.