Falana Asks IGP To Take Over Habila, Tanimola Death Probes

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has asked the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take over investigations into the deaths of Mary Habila and Babatunde Tanimola.

Falana said the cases should receive thorough and independent police attention. He also called for a speedy autopsy in Habila’s case and for transparent investigation of alleged politically motivated killings in Osun State.

Habila was found dead 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. Umahi has denied wrongdoing, saying she had an existing medical condition and that the incident was reported to police.

Falana questioned the handling of the case, including the delay in conducting an autopsy after police rejected a request by Habila’s father for the release of her body for burial.

He also asked the IGP to take over the investigation into Tanimola’s death. Tanimola was recently identified by the Presidency as a principal suspect in the alleged creation of a fake government agency, but police said he died in a hotel fire in Abuja on October 22, 2025.

Falana argued that because the anti-corruption investigation into the alleged fake agency does not cover Tanimola’s death, the police should handle that part separately.

Sources: Daily Trust, Vanguard