Amnesty International has begun a public inquiry into political violence in Kano State following attacks on May 5, 2026, that killed at least five people in Kano and Gwarzo. The investigation will focus on identifying armed gangs known as "'Yan daba" and the politicians allegedly backing them. Amnesty International Nigeria's Executive Director, Isa Sanusi, stated that these gangs, linked to prominent politicians and government officials, are endangering peace and human rights in the region. "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 is urging the public, civil society groups and families of victims to share information through secure channels to aid the probe. Amnesty International stressed that those involved in sponsoring or carrying out political violence should face consequences under Nigerian and international law. The group called on Nigerian authorities, political parties and politicians to respect the rule of law and ensure protection of lives and property before, during and after political events. Sanusi reiterated this point, saying, "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." Ahead of upcoming elections, Amnesty urged political actors to publicly distance themselves from violent groups undermining democratic participation. The organisation warned that rising violence in Kano is restricting citizens' ability to freely engage in political and social life.
Isa Sanusi condemns politicians and officials for allegedly backing armed "'Yan daba" gangs while calling for rule of law, creating a direct contradiction in stance. He leads an organisation demanding accountability from political actors who are said to be enabling the very violence they are expected to control. This inquiry puts pressure on named figures in Kano to explain their links to groups accused of terrorising residents. If evidence ties officials to these gangs, their positions and public trust in them will face immediate scrutiny.
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