Amnesty opens probe into Kano political violence

Amnesty International has launched a public inquiry into the growing wave of gang violence and political thuggery in Kano State following recent deadly attacks that reportedly claimed at least five lives in Kano and Gwarzo on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the rights organisation said the inquiry forms part of an ongoing investigation aimed at identifying both the perpetrators and the politicians allegedly sponsoring violent gangs, commonly known as “‘Yan daba.”

The Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, warned that the activities of armed gangs linked to influential politicians and government officials now pose a major threat to peace and human rights in Kano.

“The recent incidents of activities of armed gangs (Yan daba) working for some prominent politicians and government officials pose a threat to peace and human rights of all people of Kano. That these days, people in Kano are living in fear, this is unacceptable,” Sanusi said.

The organisation called on members of the public, civil society groups and families of victims to provide information through its secure reporting channels to support ongoing investigations and ensure accountability.

According to Amnesty International, those found sponsoring or participating in political violence should face sanctions under both Nigerian and international law.

The group also urged Nigerian authorities, political parties and politicians to uphold the rule of law and guarantee the protection of lives and property before, during and after political activities.

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

Ahead of future elections, Amnesty International further called on politicians and political parties to publicly dissociate themselves from violent gangs allegedly terrorising residents and undermining democratic participation.

The organisation said the increasing violence in Kano is threatening citizens’ freedom to participate in social and political activities and warned that the trend must be urgently addressed.