Obi condemns Kano commentator killing and calls for a thorough probe after Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu was killed at his home
Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the killing of Kano-based social media commentator Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, calling on the Kano State Government and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation on Friday, September 11, 2026.
Also read: Okonkwo Says Tinubu, Obi Backed Atiku in 2007, 2019
Dan Shagamu was killed at his residence in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State, on Monday night, with the Kano State Police Command confirming that 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 assailants had forcibly entered Dan Shagamu’s residence and attacked him with sharp objects.
Police officers from the Kumbotso Division responded and rushed the victim to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano, where a medical doctor confirmed his death.
The police said the two suspects remained in custody and were being interrogated, while forensic procedures were underway to establish the circumstances and motive behind the killing.
Reacting to the incident in a statement posted on his X account, Obi said political or personal disagreements 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,” Obi said.
“No disagreement, criticism, or neighbourhood dispute can ever justify the taking of a human life.”
The former governor also warned that Nigerians should not be forced into silence through fear or violence.
“Those who speak up, express their opinions, or hold different views must not be made to live in fear,” he said.
Obi called on the Kano State Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a “thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation” into the killing.
He also urged investigators to ensure that everyone found responsible is brought before the courts, stressing the importance of protecting freedom of expression under Nigeria’s Constitution.
The call comes as police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Dan Shagamu’s death.
Authorities have yet to publicly establish the motive for the attack or disclose the identities of the two suspects arrested in connection with the case.
The Kano State Police Command has assured residents that the investigation will be pursued to its logical conclusion.
It also said the suspects would be charged to court after the investigation is completed.
The killing has raised fresh concerns over the safety of commentators and other Nigerians who express strong views on social and political issues, particularly through social media.
For Obi, the incident goes beyond the loss of an individual.
His statement places the protection of citizens and freedom of expression at the centre of the response, while leaving investigators to establish what led to the fatal attack.
He extended his condolences to Dan Shagamu’s family, friends, colleagues and followers, while praying for the repose of his soul.
Also read: Okonkwo Says Tinubu, Obi Backed Atiku in 2007, 2019
The investigation will now determine the circumstances surrounding the killing, the motive behind the attack and the extent of the involvement of those arrested.
