Late Kano Social Media Commentator Had Raised Alarm Over Death Threats

The late Kano social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, had raised concerns over alleged death threats against him weeks before he was killed at his residence in Gaida, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State.

Dan Shagamu, 54, had appealed to the Kano State Government, the Emir of Kano and the police to intervene, alleging that he was being repeatedly harassed and threatened by some of his neighbours.

In a video posted on his social media platform, he said, “I need the support of the Kano governor, emir of Kano and the police. I have been receiving death threats from my neighbours.”

He alleged that children from the neighbourhood regularly pelted his house with stones, damaged his television and gathered around his residence to insult him.

According to him, he had reported the matter to the Gaida village head, who later referred it to the Ja’en village head, but the situation remained unresolved.

Dan Shagamu also alleged that some of his neighbours were aware of the threats and had conspired against him.

He further shared a video showing children outside his residence, which he claimed captured them threatening to kill him.

His earlier warning has attracted renewed attention following his death in the early hours of Wednesday.

Family members said unidentified men broke into his residence and killed him.

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the killing, while investigations are ongoing.

However, the state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said preliminary findings had not linked the killing to Dan Shagamu’s social media activities.

According to the police spokesman, the incident appeared to have been motivated by what he described as “pure envy and hatred by neighbours.”

Dan Shagamu, who operated under the name Dan Shagamu International, was known for producing videos and commentaries on political, religious and community issues.

He was particularly vocal in his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and had used his platform to support opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he once described as the “incoming President.”

His commentaries also covered religious controversies in Kano, including issues involving Islamic clerics and other matters of public interest.

His decision to publicly seek protection over alleged threats from people within his neighbourhood has now assumed greater significance following his death.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing and determine the motive behind the attack.