NHRC Demands Justice for Slain Kano Commentator, Danshagamu
Published by Sola Akingboye, 11 September, 2026
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chief Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, has strongly condemned the fatal stabbing of Mr. Ibrahim Khalil Danshagamu, a public commentator, at his home in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State.
The Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, NHRC, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed revealed that Chief Ojukwu said the Commission was shocked to receive the report from the Kano State Police Command that Mr. Danshagamu was assaulted by unknown attackers who forcefully entered his residence on Monday, 8 September 2026. He noted that the victim was quickly taken to Murtala Mohammed Specialists Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Executive Secretary described the killing as a serious violation of the fundamental right to life, protected 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 deep concern about the impact of the killing on freedom of expression and civic engagement, noting that Mr. Danshagamu was known for sharing his views on governance and public policy.
According to him, citizens must be able to voice their opinions, criticise public authorities, and participate in public conversations without fear of violence, intimidation, or retaliation.
Chief Ojukwu acknowledged that the Police had detained two suspects and initiated an investigation, but called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano State Police Command to treat the matter as one of urgent national importance.
He urged for a swift, thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation, stressing that authorities must identify not only those responsible for the attack but also uncover the motive, sponsors, financiers, organisers, and any accomplices.
The learned Silk further demanded that all suspects with credible evidence against them be prosecuted promptly, warning that the investigation must not stagnate or be allowed to fade into the system.
Chief Ojukwu appealed to the Federal Government, Kano State Government, and all security agencies to immediately review and enhance protective measures for journalists, bloggers, public commentators, human rights defenders, and others whose work or opinions may expose them to threats.
He warned that, as Nigeria nears a critical political and electoral period, violence must never be used as a response to criticism, dissent, or public commentary. He emphasised that democratic participation can only flourish where citizens feel safe to speak, question, and disagree.
The Chief Human Rights Officer extended the NHRC’s condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Mr. Danshagamu, assuring them that the Commission would monitor the investigation closely and engage relevant authorities to ensure justice is served.
He stressed that “in a democracy, dissent is not a crime. Criticism must be answered with dialogue and accountability, not violence.”
He added that condemnation alone is no longer enough, insisting that the perpetrators must be identified, the truth uncovered, and justice delivered.
