Kano: Famous Critic Dan Shagamu Found Dead as Police Arrest Two Suspects

Residents of Gaida in Kano State have been left in shock following the death of prominent commentator and critic Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, whose body was discovered at a residence in the area.

The circumstances surrounding his death have raised fresh concerns after videos he previously shared online surfaced, in which he claimed that some individuals were threatening his life. He had also alleged repeated harassment involving some children in his neighbourhood and called for intervention from security authorities and traditional leaders.

In one of the videos, Dan Shagamu said a disagreement began after a neighbour’s child asked him for alms. He claimed that the incident later escalated, with some of the children allegedly threatening him and attacking his property. He further alleged that their parents knew about the situation but failed to intervene.

The late commentator was known for his outspoken views on political and social issues. In 2022, he was arrested and arraigned before a Kano High Court over alleged defamation of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd.). He had accused Buratai in a video of acquiring filling stations in Kano through proceeds from an arms deal, an allegation that led to his prosecution.

Dan Shagamu was also openly critical of the APC-led administration and had publicly disagreed with some members of the Izala group. His sister, Malama Halima, said he had become increasingly cautious about his safety following the threats he had reported and had stopped regularly sleeping at home.

She said his friend later became concerned after finding the residence locked on more than one occasion and eventually contacted the police. Family members and officers subsequently gained access to the property, where they found Dan Shagamu dead.

His nephew, Muhammad Hizbullah Kabiru, confirmed that he and others went to the residence with the police after receiving directions to the location. The family has described the circumstances of his death as deeply disturbing, while authorities have not publicly established a motive.

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, through his aide Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, appealed for calm and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands. He also directed the Department of State Services and other security agencies to work towards identifying and arresting those responsible.

The Kano State Police Command said two suspects had been arrested in connection with the case. Police spokesperson CSP Kiyawa said the suspects were being interrogated while investigators continued efforts to identify anyone else linked to the incident. He added that statements were being taken and forensic procedures were underway to establish the circumstances and motive behind the killing.