Kano political commentator Ibrahim Khalil, widely known on social media as Dan Shagamu, has been found dead at his residence in Gaida, Kano metropolis.
Khalil’s body was discovered in a pool of blood on Wednesday, with the circumstances of his death prompting calls for an urgent investigation.
Amnesty International condemned the killing, alleging that the commentator was “brutally slaughtered after being overpowered by his killers”.
The rights organisation urged the Nigerian authorities to establish what led to the killing, identify those responsible, and prosecute them.
“In a democracy, outspoken persons or critics are accommodated, listened to, not killed,” Amnesty International said in its reaction.
The organisation also raised concerns about alleged killings, threats, and intimidation ahead of the 2027 elections.
“As the elections approach, we continue to receive disturbing reports of politically related threats to life and intimidation,” it said.
Amnesty International further accused the government of doing little to prevent what it described as widespread killings and other serious human rights violations.
Meanwhile, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has ordered security agencies to track down those behind Khalil’s death.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, said Yusuf described the incident as “shocking and unacceptable” and demanded a thorough investigation.
“Governor Yusuf extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased, praying Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest,” Bature said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Yusuf also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid any attempt to retaliate or take the law into their own hands.
He directed the Kano commands of the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force to intensify efforts to identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators.
The governor said no individual or group would be allowed to resort to self-help, assuring residents that his administration would continue working with security agencies to protect lives and property across the state.
The circumstances surrounding Khalil’s killing have not been publicly established, as investigations into the incident continue.