Amnesty International Demands Investigation into Killing of Hunger Protesters in Kano, Nigeria

Amnesty International has called on the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to immediately set up an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the reckless killing of at least 10 hunger protesters at Kurna and Kofar Nassarawa in Kano, Nigeria.

In a statement, Amnesty International urged that the general conduct of security agencies, the violent disruptions and destructions caused by alleged hired thugs, must also be investigated. The human rights organization emphasized that the commission must conduct its work publicly and be resourceful enough to carry out its functions, which includes adequate financial support, expertise in criminal investigation, forensic analysis, legal analysis, witness protection, and data management.

The organization warned that failure to investigate the killings and destruction in Kano, from August 1 to date, by state and non-state actors, would be a devastating setback for the rule of law and only perpetuate the culture of impunity that is already prevalent in Nigeria.

To ensure an effective investigation that can lead to justice, Amnesty International called for the protection of victims, their families, and potential witnesses from being influenced, harassed, threatened, ill-treated, or subjected to reprisals, allowing them to make submissions to the panel without fear. The organization also urged the Kano State government to ensure that the panel has the mandate to make recommendations to bring the perpetrators of alleged violations to justice.

This development underscores the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into the killings and destruction in Kano, and for the perpetrators to be held accountable.