Kano based political commentator Dan Shagamu killed by assailants, Amnesty demands probe
By Ishaya Ibrahim
Popular Kano-based political commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu was found dead in his residence on Tuesday, his throat slit in what is suspected to be a gruesome killing.
Dan Shagamu, who operated under the brand Dan-shagamu International, was known for his social media videos and commentary on political, religious and community issues.
Amnesty International Nigeria confirmed his killing in a statement posted on X on Wednesday, saying his body was found in a pool of blood at his home.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the killing of a social media political commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu whose body was found today in a pool of blood at his home in Kano,” the organisation said.
“He was brutally slaughtered after being overpowered by his killers.”
Details surrounding the circumstances of the killing were still unclear as of Wednesday.
Reports circulating on social media said Dan Shagamu was killed in a gruesome manner, with some describing the attack as “yankan rago”, a Hausa expression referring to throat-slitting.
Amnesty International called on the Nigerian authorities to investigate the killing and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
“The Nigerian authorities must investigate this incident and ensure that those suspected of responsibility are brought to justice,” it said, while tagging the Nigeria Police Force.
The rights organisation also expressed concern over what it described as increasing politically related threats and intimidation ahead of the elections.
“As the elections approach, we continue to receive disturbing reports of politically related threats to life and intimidation,” Amnesty said.
News of Dan Shagamu’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief among his followers and residents, with many taking to social media to express shock and offer prayers for his soul.
