Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to launch an urgent and independent investigation into the killing of five people by suspected political thugs in Kano, describing the incident as a grave escalation of political violence in the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the rights organisation condemned the attacks, which reportedly occurred on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, and warned that the resurgence of organised political thuggery poses a serious threat to public safety and democratic participation.
Amnesty International said it had reviewed video footage showing armed mobs pursuing individuals who were later killed. The group noted that other recordings depicted victims lying critically injured, underscoring the severity of the violence. According to the organisation, the assailants were allegedly seen wearing apparel associated with a ruling political party and chanting violent slogans.
The organisation further disclosed that it had received reports of coordinated attacks targeting perceived political opponents, adding that a similar incident was recorded in Gwarzo, where armed groups allegedly linked to political actors carried out violent assaults on residents.
Amnesty International said it is examining allegations implicating certain political figures and government officials as sponsors of the armed groups, stressing that accountability must extend beyond direct perpetrators to those who finance or orchestrate such acts.
“This incident reflects a dangerous escalation in a pattern of political violence that has intensified in Kano in recent months,” the organisation stated, warning that armed groups operating with perceived impunity are undermining the right to life and eroding public trust in the rule of law.
The group called on law enforcement agencies to ensure that all those responsible are identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law, while urging political leaders and parties to refrain from actions that could incite violence.
Amnesty International also emphasised the need for authorities to safeguard fundamental rights, including freedom of association and movement, particularly in the context of political activities.
It warned that the growing use of violence by politically affiliated groups is fostering a climate of fear, discouraging civic participation, and weakening democratic processes in the state.
