Danshagamu murder: Kwankwaso, Amnesty demand probe into killing of social media critic
Former Kano Governor and Amnesty International Condemn Killing of Political Commentator
KANO, Nigeria — Former Kano State governor and vice-presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, along with Amnesty International, has condemned the reported killing of Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, a political commentator known for his social media presence. Dan Shagamu was found dead in his home in the Gaida area of Kumbotso Local Government Area, reportedly in a pool of blood.
In separate statements, both Kwankwaso and Amnesty International called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Dan Shagamu’s death. Kwankwaso characterized the incident as “deeply disturbing,” emphasizing the urgency for the Kano State Government to establish an investigative panel to address the case.
“I am deeply disturbed by the killing of the renowned social media political commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu,” Kwankwaso stated. “The state government must take decisive action and launch a thorough investigation into this horrific attack.”
Kwankwaso warned that if the authorities fail to act transparently, the incoming NDC administration plans to initiate its own investigation once in office. He underscored the importance of protecting opposition voices and reaffirmed that freedom of expression is a constitutional right.
Amnesty International echoed these sentiments, describing Dan Shagamu’s death as a violation of human rights. The organization urged Nigerian authorities to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the murder, asserting that in a democracy, dissenting voices should be embraced, not silenced.
“The Nigerian authorities must investigate this incident and ensure that those suspected of responsibility are brought to justice,” Amnesty stated, expressing concern over rising violence against critics as the 2027 general elections approach.
Additionally, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, the NDC’s candidate for the Kano governorship, condemned Dan Shagamu’s murder as “heinous, barbaric and totally condemnable.” He called for immediate action from security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the killing.
“The murder of Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu is deeply disturbing and cannot be justified by any political disagreement or dissent,” Gwarzo remarked. He urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security forces in the ongoing investigation.
Both Kwankwaso and Gwarzo extended their condolences to the family and friends of Dan Shagamu, while Amnesty International reiterated its demand for accountability and justice in the case.
