Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has called for thorough investigations into controversial deaths across the country, saying the constitutional right to life is inviolable and must be upheld at all times.

According to Falana, any circumstances surrounding unnatural or questionable deaths should undergo rigorous scrutiny by authorities.

The renowned lawyer made this remark in reaction to the death of Mary Habila, a young woman whose body was found on June 27, 2026, at a residence linked to Minister of Works David Umahi in Uburu, Ebonyi State.

Although Umahi denied involvement, claiming that the deceased died from a medical condition and that the police were informed, Falana expressed concern about aspects of the investigation.

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He questioned how the scene was handled and criticised the delay in performing an autopsy, noting reports that police refused family requests to release her body.

Falana urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to oversee the investigation directly and called on the Nigerian Medical Association to ensure an autopsy is conducted promptly to determine the true cause of death.

He also raised concerns about Babatunde Dolapo Tanimola, a principal suspect in an alleged fake agency scam, who reportedly died in a hotel fire in Abuja in October 2025.

While authorities confirmed the death through hospital and mortuary records and family interviews, Falana argued that unanswered questions remain.

He pointed out reports that the hotel was later demolished, which raised suspicions and called for an independent investigation.

Finally, he urged the Nigerian Police Force leadership to take charge of the case.

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