Nigeria: Government critic influencer found dead with throat slashed

A Nigerian influencer, known for his politically critical stances towards the government, was killed at his home in the northern city of Kano, his family and a human rights group announced Wednesday.

Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu was found dead, his throat slashed, at his home late Tuesday by friends and neighbors, who had climbed the fence because he had not responded since Monday when people knocked on his door.

His death comes as the election campaign is in full swing in Africa's most populous country, ahead of the presidential election on January 16.

The 57-year-old father of six was found "slaughtered with deep head injuries," his sister, Aisha Sharu Lawan, told the press.

"It was a horrific scene. Both of his cell phones were gone," she added. Dan Shagamu, who had hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook and TikTok, was known for his outspoken videos in Hausa, critical of the government on local political and social issues.

The motive for the crime had not yet been established as of Wednesday, but Ms. Lawan was leaning towards a criminal act.

"His friend said he had a dispute with people who had threatened to kill him," she said, calling for an investigation and prosecution of the murderers.

Dan Shagamu was a reporter for a local state-funded radio station before resigning and becoming active on social media, where he built a large fan base.

Amnesty International condemned his murder, stating in a press release that he had been "brutally massacred after being overpowered by his killers".

The election campaign in Nigeria began last month. Elections in Nigeria are usually marred by violence orchestrated by politicians who employ thugs to intimidate their opponents.

AFP