Kano State governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Aminu Gwarzo, has condemned the killing of social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, in the Gaida area of Kumbotso Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Shuaibu, Gwarzo described the murder as “heinous, barbaric and totally condemnable.”
“I am calling on security agencies to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing, identify those responsible and ensure that they are brought to justice,” Gwarzo said.
He said no citizen should lose his life because of opinions, criticism or political views.
“The murder of Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu is deeply disturbing and condemnable. No disagreement, criticism or political difference should ever justify taking a human life,” he stated.
“The life of every citizen matters, regardless of political affiliation, opinion or social status. Those behind this terrible act must be found and brought to justice.”
*What happened*
Dan Shagamu was reportedly attacked and killed inside his residence in Gaida on Monday. The incident has raised concerns among residents over the safety of people who use social media to express their views.
The Kano State Police Command said it has arrested two suspects in connection with the death.
In a statement on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the incident occurred around 11:30pm on Monday after the Vigilante Group Commander in Gaida reported that unknown hoodlums forcibly entered Dan Shagamu’s home and attacked him with sharp objects.
*Call for justice and calm*
Gwarzo urged security agencies to treat the investigation with urgency, warning that failure to apprehend the killers could deepen public fear and erode trust in the security system.
He condoled with the family, friends and associates of the deceased and urged them to remain calm while authorities carry out a comprehensive investigation.
The NDC candidate also called for stronger security across communities in Kano, saying protecting lives and property is a core responsibility of government.
He appealed to residents not to take the law into their own hands or carry out reprisals, but to provide useful information to security agencies to help identify and arrest those responsible.
“Kano must remain a state where citizens can live, work and express their views without fear of violence,” Gwarzo said.