Customs operatives shoot car dealer dead in Kebbi

The Kebbi State chapter of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON) has condemned the killing of one of its members, Tukur Salihu, allegedly by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, Kaduna, attached to Kebbi State.

In a statement issued by AMDON Secretary, Shehu Bunza, said the 45-year-old dealer was shot on Sunday, at about 11 a.m. and noon along the Nagari College–Illelar Yari axis within the Birnin Kebbi metropolis.

Bunza described the incident as disturbing and called it a reflection of what he termed increasing cases of extra-judicial killings and human rights abuses in the state and across the country.

According to him, the association views the shooting as an unjustified use of force that has created fear and panic among motor dealers and residents.

“We are particularly disturbed that this happened in broad daylight, with the perpetrators acting as if they were above the law and with no regard for human life,” he said.

Salihu was reportedly rushed to hospital after the incident but died around midnight.

He has since been buried in his hometown of Argungu. He is survived by two wives, seven children and his aged parents.

AMDON has called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to launch an immediate investigation and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The group also urged the Nigeria Customs Service to probe the actions of its officers and take steps to prevent similar incidents.

The association further appealed to the Kebbi State Government to provide support and compensation to the deceased’s family, while calling on the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association and other civil society organisations to intervene.

“Our condolences go to the family, and we pray they have the strength to bear this loss,” Bunza added.