Kano Political Commentator Dan Shagamu Found Dead at Home, Amnesty Demands Probe

Popular Kano-based social media political commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu has been found dead at his residence in Kano, with Amnesty International Nigeria calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Dan Shagamu, who operated under the name Dan-Shagamu International, was known for his social media commentary on political, religious and community issues. Amnesty International confirmed his death in a statement on Wednesday, saying his body was found in a pool of blood at his home.

The rights organisation said he was “brutally slaughtered after being overpowered by his killers” and urged Nigerian authorities to identify and bring those responsible to justice.

The circumstances surrounding the killing remained unclear at the time of reporting. While reports from multiple sources confirmed that he was found dead at his residence, details about how the attack occurred had not been officially established by the authorities.

Amnesty International expressed concern over what it described as reports of politically related threats and intimidation ahead of the elections, urging the authorities to protect citizens and investigate the killing.

“In a democracy, outspoken persons or critics are accommodated, listened to, not killed,” the organisation said.

Dan Shagamu had been an outspoken commentator on political and social issues in Kano, with his online activities attracting a substantial following.

As of the latest reports, the Kano State Police Command had not publicly disclosed details of the incident or announced arrests in connection with the killing.

The rights group’s call has increased pressure on the authorities to establish what happened and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.