Amnesty International has called on Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to establish an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the fatal shooting of at least 10 protesters in Kurna and Kofar Nasarawa during the #EndBadGovernance protests. These protests demanded significant economic reforms and the reinstatement of fuel subsidies that were removed by the federal government.
In a statement released on Sunday, Amnesty International stressed the necessity of a thorough investigation into the general conduct of security agencies and the alleged involvement of hired thugs who reportedly disrupted the protests and caused destruction.
The organization urged that the commission’s work be conducted publicly and be sufficiently resourced to ensure a comprehensive inquiry.
Amnesty International Nigeria stated, “The Governor of Kano state, Abba Kabir Yusuf, must immediately establish an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the reckless killing of at least 10 hunger protesters at Kurna and Kofar Nasarawa, Kano. The general conduct of security agencies and the interruptions and destruction caused by alleged hired thugs must also be thoroughly investigated.”
The statement further noted that failing to investigate these incidents, which occurred from August 1 to date, would be a severe setback for the rule of law in Nigeria and perpetuate the existing culture of impunity in the country.
Amnesty International also highlighted the need for victims, their families, and potential witnesses to be protected from any form of harassment, threats, ill-treatment, or reprisals to ensure they can testify freely and without fear before the panel.
(DailyTrust)