The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the killing of Kano-based social media commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Obi made the call in a statement shared on his X account on Friday, urging the Kano State Government and security agencies to ensure that those behind the killing are identified and brought to justice.
Dan Shagamu was reportedly killed at his residence in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State, on Monday night.
The Kano State Police Command said two suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.
According to the police, the attack occurred at about 11:30pm after the Vigilante Group Commander in Gaida reported that unidentified hoodlums had forcefully entered Dan Shagamu’s residence and attacked him with sharp objects.
Police officers from the Kumbotso Division responded to the report and took him to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano, where a medical doctor confirmed his death.
The command said the suspects remained in custody and were being interrogated, while forensic procedures were underway to determine the circumstances and motive behind the attack.
Reacting to the incident, Obi said disagreements, criticism or differences of opinion should never be used as justification for violence.
“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.
Obi further urged the Kano State Government and relevant security agencies to carry out a “thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation” into the killing.
He called for everyone responsible to face justice, while stressing that freedom of expression is protected by the Nigerian Constitution.
The NDC presidential candidate also extended his condolences to Dan Shagamu’s family, friends, colleagues and followers, and prayed for the repose of his soul.
The police had earlier assured residents that the investigation would be taken to its logical conclusion, adding that the suspects would be charged to court after the investigation.