Amnesty Launches Probe Into Rising Gang Attacks, Political Violence In Kano

Amnesty International has commenced a public inquiry into the rising cases of gang attacks and political violence in Kano State following recent killings reported in parts of the state.

The organisation said the inquiry followed violent incidents in Kano and Gwarzo communities on May 5, during which at least five persons were reportedly killed.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, said the exercise was part of ongoing efforts to identify those behind the attacks, including politicians allegedly sponsoring violent gangs popularly known as “Yan daba.”

Sanusi expressed concern over the activities of armed groups allegedly linked to influential political figures and government officials, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to peace and human rights in the state.

He said residents of Kano were increasingly living in fear as a result of recurring violence associated with political activities.

“The recent incidents involving armed gangs working for some prominent politicians and government officials pose a threat to peace and human rights of the people of Kano. People are now living in fear and this is unacceptable,” he stated.

The rights organisation called on members of the public, civil society organisations and relatives of victims to provide credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and support accountability efforts.

Amnesty International also stressed that individuals found sponsoring or participating in political violence should be sanctioned in accordance with Nigerian and international laws.

The organisation urged political parties, politicians and relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure the protection of lives and property before, during and after political activities.

It further called on political actors to publicly dissociate themselves from violent gangs accused of intimidating residents and undermining democratic participation in the state.

According to the organisation, the increasing violence in Kano is gradually restricting citizens’ ability to freely engage in political and social activities, warning that urgent steps must be taken to halt the trend.