The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the fatal stabbing of public commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Danshagamu, at his residence in Kano State, calling for a prompt and impartial investigation into the killing and its implications for freedom of expression.
The executive Secretary of the NHRC, Chief Tony Ojukwu, said the commission received the report of the attack with shock.
According to the Kano State Police Command, unknown assailants forcibly entered Danshagamu’s residence in Gaida Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area, on Monday, 8 September 2026.
Danshagamu was later taken to Murtala Mohammed Specialists Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed him dead on arrival.
Ojukwu described the killing as a grave violation of the fundamental right to life guaranteed by Section 33 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended.
He also cited Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which protects the right to life.
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The NHRC chief expressed particular concern over the potential impact of the killing on freedom of expression and civic participation.
Danshagamu was known for expressing views on governance and public policy, according to the commission.
Ojukwu said; “citizens must be able to express opinions, criticise public authorities and participate in public discourse without fear of violence or reprisal.”
The police have arrested two suspects and begun an investigation, the NHRC said.
Urgent National Matter
However, Ojukwu urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano State Police Command to treat the case as an urgent national matter.
He called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
The investigation, he said, should establish those who carried out the attack, as well as the motive behind it.
He also urged authorities to identify any sponsors, financiers, organisers or others who may have aided or facilitated the killing.
Ojukwu called for the expeditious prosecution of suspects against whom credible evidence is established.
He warned that the investigation must not be allowed to stall or disappear into the system.
The NHRC also called on the Nigerian Government, Kano State Government and security agencies to strengthen protective measures for journalists, bloggers, public commentators and human rights defenders.
The commission said such measures should also protect other citizens whose work or opinions could expose them to threats.
Ojukwu warned that violence must not become a response to criticism, dissent or public commentary as Nigeria approaches a critical political and electoral period.
Public Authorities
He said democratic participation depends on citizens being able to speak, question public authorities and disagree safely.
“In a democracy, dissent is not a crime. Criticism must be answered with dialogue and accountability, not violence,” Ojukwu said.
Ojukwu, who is Nigeria’s Chief Human Rights Officer, expressed condolences to Danshagamu’s family, friends and associates.
He assured them that the NHRC would closely monitor the investigation and engage relevant authorities to ensure that justice is pursued.
