Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has called for a thorough investigation into the killing of Kano-based social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu.
Obi, in a statement shared on his X account on Friday, condemned the killing and urged the Kano State Government and security agencies to ensure that those behind the attack are identified and prosecuted.
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 it had arrested two suspects in connection with the incident.
According to the police, the attack occurred around 11:30pm after the commander of the local vigilante group reported that some unidentified hoodlums had forcibly gained entry into Dan Shagamu’s residence and attacked him with sharp objects.
Police officers from the Kumbotso Division responded to the report and rushed the victim to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, Kano, where he was pronounced dead by a medical doctor.
The command said the suspects remained in custody and were being interrogated, while forensic investigations were underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing and establish the motive.
Reacting to the incident, Obi said disagreements or criticism could never justify taking another person’s 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,” he said.
Obi added that people who express their opinions or hold opposing views should be able to do so without fear of violence.
He called on the Kano State Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a “thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation” into the killing.
The former governor also urged authorities to ensure that everyone found responsible was brought to justice, stressing the importance of protecting freedom of expression.
Obi expressed his condolences to Dan Shagamu’s family, friends, colleagues and followers, and prayed for the repose of his soul.
The police command 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 completion of the investigation.
