Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, the late social media commentator from Kano, had publicly expressed alarm over alleged death threats against him merely weeks before he was tragically murdered at his residence in Gaida, Kumbotso Local Government Area of the state.
Dan Shagamu, aged 54, had previously posted a video on his social media platform, appealing for intervention from the Kano State Government, the Emir of Kano, and the police. In his appeal, he detailed persistent harassment and threats he claimed to have received from his neighbours.
"I need the support of the Kano governor, emir of Kano and the police. I have been receiving death threats from my neighbours," he stated in the video.
He further elaborated on the alleged harassment, which he said included children from the neighbourhood throwing stones at him, causing damage to his television, and gathering outside his home to hurl insults. According to Dan Shagamu, he had reported these issues to the Gaida village head, who subsequently referred the matter to the Ja’en village head; however, the situation remained unresolved.
Dan Shagamu also alleged that his neighbours were fully aware of the threats and had conspired against him. "They are after me, and they are our neighbours’ children. The neighbours are aware but have conspired. I am asking for help, please," he pleaded.
To substantiate his claims, he shared a video recording purporting to show children outside his residence, capturing them making threats to kill him.
The significance of these earlier warnings has now intensified following his death in the early hours of Wednesday. Family members reported that unidentified assailants forced entry into his home and brutally slaughtered him.
In response, the police have since confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the killing, with investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident still ongoing. However, the state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, revealed that preliminary findings do not suggest a link between the killing and Dan Shagamu's social media activities. Instead, Kiyawa attributed the motive to "pure envy and hatred by neighbours."
Operating under the moniker 'Dan Shagamu International', Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu was a recognised figure on social media, known for producing videos and offering commentary on various political, religious, and community issues. His interventions often delved into contentious aspects of public life.
He was particularly outspoken in his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration and frequently used his platform to advocate for opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he once referred to as the "incoming President" in one of his videos. His commentaries also extended to religious controversies within Kano, where he voiced strong opinions on matters involving Islamic clerics and other public concerns.
His public plea for protection against threats from those in his immediate vicinity has gained renewed scrutiny following his tragic death, lending a new dimension to his earlier allegations as authorities continue their investigation.