Amnesty International calls for probe into Kano killings

Amnesty International Nigeria has called on authorities to urgently investigate the killing of five people in Kano, blaming armed political thugs for the violence.

In a statement on Wednesday shared on the organisation’s X handle, Amnesty International said the attack marks a serious rise in political violence in the state. It described the incident as the bloodiest surge of political thuggery in recent years.

According to Amnesty, videos reviewed by the group show armed men moving in groups, chasing people who were attempting to flee before killing them in the streets.

Other clips reportedly showed victims lying in pools of blood after the attack.

The group also said the attackers were seen wearing clothing linked to the ruling party and chanting violent slogans. It added that there are reports of political supporters targeting opponents, whether real or perceived.

Amnesty revealed it is investigating allegations that some well-known politicians and government officials in Kano may be behind the violence.

“The Nigerian authorities, politicians and political parties must respect the rule of law and ensure that lives and property are not put at risk and are protected before, during, and after political events,” the group said.

It also warned that the situation is affecting citizens’ rights, adding that, “people’s right to freedom of association and movement must be upheld and protected.”

The organisation further raised concerns about the wider impact of the violence on democracy in the state.

“This trend of violence that is becoming rampant in Kano is undermining free participation of people in political affairs,” Amnesty said.

It added that, “Increasing political violence by armed thugs working for some politicians in Kano is creating a toxic climate of fear and infringes on the rights of people to freely participate in politics and political activities.”

The organisation warned that such incidents point to a growing pattern of political attacks in recent months. It said armed groups linked to politicians are becoming a serious threat to public safety.

Amnesty stressed that authorities must act swiftly to bring those responsible to justice, including anyone sponsoring the attacks.