Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing pattern of controversial deaths across the country, calling for independent and transparent investigations to prevent a culture of impunity.
Falana warned that the increasing number of high-profile deaths surrounded by unanswered questions risks eroding public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system if authorities fail to conduct credible investigations.
In a statement on Monday, the senior lawyer urged the Inspector-General of Police to personally take over investigations into the death of Mary Habila, a young woman who died under controversial circumstances in a residence linked to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State, as well as the reported death of Babatunde Dolapo Tanimola, a key suspect in the alleged “fake agency” scandal.
He also called for speedy prosecution of suspects arrested in connection with politically motivated killings ahead of the Osun State governorship election.
According to Falana, the constitutional guarantee of the right to life imposes a legal duty on the government to thoroughly investigate every suspicious death, irrespective of the status of those involved.
While noting that Minister Umahi had denied any wrongdoing and maintained that the matter was reported to the police, Falana questioned the delay in conducting an autopsy on Mary Habila despite requests by her family.
He urged the Nigerian Medical Association to facilitate the autopsy without further delay, saying only a credible forensic examination could establish the true cause of death.
Falana also expressed concern over reports that the Abuja hotel where Tanimola reportedly died in a fire had since been demolished, arguing that such developments raise legitimate questions that should be addressed through a fresh investigation.
On the politically linked killings in Osun State, the senior advocate welcomed police confirmation that several suspects had been arrested but urged the state Attorney-General to ensure prompt prosecution to deter future violence.
He further reminded authorities that the Coroner Laws applicable in Ebonyi State, Osun State and the Federal Capital Territory require formal inquests into sudden, violent or suspicious deaths, insisting that those provisions should be fully enforced.
Falana urged civil society organisations, the media and relevant institutions to remain vigilant and continue demanding accountability in cases involving unexplained deaths.
“The sanctity of human life must be upheld at all times. These deaths must be properly investigated and not allowed to fade into obscurity,” he said.
He maintained that only transparent investigations and diligent prosecution of offenders would reassure Nigerians that justice is administered without fear or favour.