The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has condemned the reported killing of Kano-based political commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, warning that attacks on outspoken Nigerians could threaten the 2027 elections.
The national coordinator of the group in a statement on Thursday said the reported killing was disturbing, coming as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the rights group, Amnesty International Nigeria confirmed that Dan Shagamu was killed and that his body was found in a pool of blood at his home in Kano.
However, HURIWA said the circumstances and motive for the killing remained unclear and urged the authorities to establish the facts through a credible investigation.
The group warned against linking the killing to political activities without evidence, but said any confirmation that he was targeted because of his political views would represent a serious threat to freedom of expression.
HURIWA said journalists, human rights defenders, civil society activists and social media commentators must be able to express their views without fear of intimidation or violence.
The organisation also alleged that some of its members and associates had faced threats because of their advocacy activities.
HURIWA called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure a thorough investigation into Dan Shagamu’s death and determine the motive behind the attack.
It urged the police to identify and prosecute anyone found responsible for the killing in accordance with the law.
The rights group also called on the Federal and state governments to strengthen the protection of journalists, activists, commentators and other citizens exercising their rights to free expression.
HURIWA further urged the European Union, United Nations and other international partners to monitor Nigeria’s civic space as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.
The organisation warned that politically motivated killings, if established and allowed to continue, could become a major threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Democracy cannot survive where citizens are forced to choose between silence and personal safety,” HURIWA said.
The group urged security agencies to urgently uncover the circumstances surrounding Dan Shagamu’s death, identify the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served.