NHRC demands thorough probe into killing of Kano public commentator

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the killing of Ibrahim Danshagamu, a Kano-based public commentator.

The Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, made the demand in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, describing the killing as a grave violation of the fundamental right to life.

Ojukwu said the NHRC received with shock the report by the Kano State Police Command that Danshagamu was attacked by unknown assailants who forcibly gained entry into his residence on Monday.

He urged the authorities to establish not only those who carried out the attack but also the motive behind the killing, as well as the sponsors, financiers, organisers and anyone who aided or facilitated the crime.

“The authorities must establish not only those who carried out the attack but also the motive, sponsors, financiers, organisers and anyone who aided or facilitated the killing,” he said.

The NHRC boss urged the police to ensure that all suspects against whom credible evidence was established were expeditiously prosecuted, warning that the investigation must not be allowed to stall or “disappear into the system.”

He noted that the police had already arrested two suspects and commenced investigation, urging the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano State Police Command to treat the matter as one of urgent national importance.
Ojukwu said the killing violated Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which guarantees the right to life, as well as Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

He expressed particular concern over the implications of the killing for freedom of expression and civic participation, noting that Danshagamu was known for expressing his views on governance and public policy.
According to him, citizens must be able to express their opinions, criticise public authorities and participate in public discourse without fear of violence, intimidation or reprisal.

The Executive Secretary also called on the Federal Government, Kano State Government and security agencies to immediately review and strengthen protective measures for journalists and other persons engaged in public commentary.

He said the need for such measures had become more urgent as Nigeria approaches a critical political and electoral period, stressing that violence must never become a response to criticism, dissent or public commentary.
“Democratic participation can only thrive where citizens are safe to speak, question and disagree,” he said.

Ojukwu condoled with the family, friends and associates of the late Danshagamu, assuring them that the NHRC would closely monitor the investigation and engage relevant authorities to ensure that justice was pursued to its logical conclusion.

“In a democracy, dissent is not a crime. Criticism must be answered with dialogue and accountability, not violence.

“The time for condemnation alone was over, and the perpetrators must be found, the truth established and justice done,” he said.