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Former Anambra State governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for a thorough investigation into the killing of Kano-based social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu.
Obi condemned the killing in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, urging the Kano State Government and security agencies to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.
Dan Shagamu was killed at his residence in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State, on Monday night. The Kano State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the incident.
According to the police, the incident occurred at about 11:30pm after the Vigilante Group Commander in Gaida reported that unknown assailants had forcibly entered Dan Shagamu’s residence and attacked him with sharp objects.
Operatives from the Kumbotso Police Division responded to the distress call and rushed the victim to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, Kano, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead.
The police said the suspects were in custody and undergoing interrogation, while statements were being obtained from relevant persons and forensic procedures conducted to establish the circumstances and motive behind the killing.
Reacting to the incident, Obi said political disagreement, criticism or disputes could never justify the taking of a human life.
“I am deeply saddened by the killing of social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, in his home in Kano.
“No disagreement, criticism, or neighbourhood dispute can ever justify the taking of a human life.
“Those who speak up, express their opinions, or hold different views must not be made to live in fear,” Obi said.
He urged the Kano State Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a “thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation” and prosecute all those found responsible.
Obi also stressed the need to protect freedom of expression, saying Nigerians who express opinions or hold views different from those of others should be able to do so without fear.
The police had earlier assured residents that the investigation would be pursued to its logical conclusion and said the suspects would be charged to court after the investigation. Additional patrols and intelligence-gathering operations have also been deployed in Gaida and neighbouring areas.
