NHRC condemns stabbing of Danshagamu in Kano

The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has condemned in the strongest terms the fatal stabbing of Mr. Ibrahim Khalil Danshagamu, a public commentator, at his residence in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso local government area of Kano state.

The ES said the commission received with shock the report by the Kano state Police command that Mr. Danshagamu was attacked by unknown assailants who forcibly entered his residence on Monday, 8 September 2026. Noting that the victim was subsequently rushed to Murtala Mohammed Specialists Hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.

The statement signed on Friday by the director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, stated  that Ojukwu described the killing as a grave violation of the fundamental right to life, guaranteed under Section 33 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

He expressed particular concern about the implications of the killing for freedom of expression and civic participation, noting that Mr. Danshagamu was known for expressing views on governance and public policy.

He stated that citizens must be able to express their opinions, criticise public authorities and participate in public discourse without fear of violence, intimidation or reprisal.

Chief Ojukwu acknowledged that the Police had arrested two suspects and commenced investigation, but urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano state Police command to treat the matter as one of urgent national importance.