The African Action Congress (AAC) has condemned the killing of Kano-based social media influencer and political commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, demanding a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Dan Shagamu was reportedly killed at his residence in Gaida, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State.
In a statement signed by the party’s Vice Presidential Candidate, Haruna Garba Magashi, on Thursday, the AAC said the incident was particularly disturbing because the deceased had reportedly raised concerns over threats to his life and appealed to the Kano State Government and security agencies for protection.
The party questioned why authorities allegedly failed to act despite the reported warnings.
“He asked for protection. He warned the authorities that his life was in danger. Yet, that protection apparently never came,” the statement said.
“Today, he is dead.
“That raises a fundamental question: What was the government waiting for?”
The AAC said the government and security agencies had a responsibility to explain what happened and why preventive measures were allegedly not taken after the deceased sought protection.
RELATED NEWS:
- Beyond Osun Election: Lessons for Opposition Parties Ahead of 2027
- Osun 2026: How Vote-Buying Could Shape the Governorship Election
- Did Staying in Buhari’s Cabinet Cost Malami His Political Future?
- 2027 Coalition Hurdles: Why a Unified Front Against APC Remains Elusive
The party also cautioned against treating the killing as an ordinary criminal incident without examining the threats reportedly made against Dan Shagamu before his death.
The AAC further urged the Kano State Government to go beyond offering condolences and ensure that the circumstances surrounding the killing were fully investigated.
“Dan Shagamu reportedly cried out for help before his death. His warning should never have been ignored,” the statement said.
AAC Demands Full Investigation
The party called for an immediate, thorough and transparent investigation to determine who planned, ordered and carried out the killing, as well as the identities and motives of those involved.
It also demanded that investigators establish whether the previous threats against Dan Shagamu were connected to his murder, whether anyone had prior knowledge of the attack and why authorities failed to provide protection despite his reported appeal for help.
The AAC further called for an investigation into whether the killing was politically, personally, communally or otherwise motivated.
“We welcome the reported arrest of suspects by the Kano State Police Command, but arrest alone is not justice. Every person genuinely connected to this crime must be identified, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement reads.
The party added that the investigation should be transparent enough to assure the deceased’s family and the people of Kano that those responsible for the killing would not escape justice.
Party Demands Diyya for Family
The AAC also demanded that the appropriate authorities ensure the family receives Diyya, or blood compensation, in accordance with Islamic principles and applicable law, without prejudice to the prosecution of those responsible for the killing.
The party said Dan Shagamu’s death has left his family without a husband, father, brother and breadwinner.
“Diyya cannot replace Ibrahim Khalil. It cannot bring him back to his children and loved ones,” the statement said.
“But where the applicable legal and religious framework provides for it, the family must not be left to bear the enormous consequences of his violent and preventable death alone.”
The party further called on the Kano State Government, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other security agencies to ensure that anyone who sponsored, facilitated or aided the killing was brought to justice.
AAC Warns Against Attacks on Critics
The AAC said the killing of people who openly express their views, criticise government or participate in public discourse would undermine democratic participation.
It urged governments at all levels to ensure the safety of citizens, journalists, activists, influencers and political critics, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
The party said critics should be confronted through “facts, arguments and good governance,” rather than violence or intimidation.
AAC Commiserates with Family
The AAC vice Presidential Candidates, Magashi on behalf of the party, expressed condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and followers of Dan Shagamu, describing him as a courageous voice who used his platform to speak on issues affecting society and governance.
“His voice has been silenced, but the questions raised by his death must not be silenced,” he said.
He prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive the deceased’s shortcomings, grant him Jannatul Firdaus and give his family the strength to bear the loss.
“Justice for Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu is not a favour. It is a duty,” Magashi said.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.