Nigerian influencer Dan Shagamu killed in Kano

Nigerian social media influencer Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu has been found killed at his home in Kano, his family and Amnesty International said on Wednesday, as election campaigning intensifies ahead of the January 16 presidential vote.

Friends and neighbours found the 57-year-old father of six late Tuesday after he had not answered his door since Monday, his family said. His elder sister, Aisha Sharu Lawan, said he had severe cuts to his head and that his two mobile phones were missing.

Dan Shagamu had hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook and TikTok and was known for Hausa-language videos critical of government on local political and social issues. He had previously worked for a state-funded local radio station.

It was not clear whether the killing was linked to his political views. Lawan said the family suspected foul play and said a friend had reported that Dan Shagamu had argued with people who threatened to kill him. She called for an investigation and prosecution.

Amnesty International condemned the killing and said it continued to receive reports of politically related threats and intimidation as elections approach. Nigerian elections are often marked by violence, including thugs recruited by politicians to intimidate opponents and silence dissenting political views.