Political commentator Dan Shagamu found dead in Kano

A Kano-based social media political commentator, Ibrahim Khalil, popularly known as Dan Shagamu, has been found dead at his residence in Gaida, Kano metropolis.

Khalil was reportedly discovered in a pool of blood at his home on Wednesday, in an incident that has sparked condemnation from rights groups and calls for a thorough investigation.

Amnesty International described the killing as brutal, saying Khalil was “brutally slaughtered after being overpowered by his killers”.

The organisation condemned the incident and urged the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible.

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

The rights group also expressed concern over what it described as inadequate efforts by the Nigerian government to prevent killings, threats, intimidation and other human rights violations, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections.

“As the elections approach, we continue to receive disturbing reports of politically related threats to life and intimidation,” the organisation said.

Reacting to the incident, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf directed security agencies to immediately investigate the killing and apprehend the perpetrators.

The governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, said Yusuf described Khalil’s death as “shocking and unacceptable”.

Yusuf called for a “thorough investigation to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice”, while extending his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends and associates.

The governor also appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory actions.

“He urged the people of Kano State to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, assuring them that the government would continue to work with security agencies to protect lives and property across the state,” Bature said.

Yusuf specifically directed the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force in Kano to intensify efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing, identify the suspects and ensure their prosecution.

The governor stressed that no person or group would be permitted to take the law into their own hands.

The circumstances surrounding Khalil’s death remain under investigation.