Amnesty International has called on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State to urgently establish an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the tragic killing of at least ten hunger protesters at Kurna and Kofar Nassarawa in Kano.
In a statement issued to the press on Sunday, Amnesty International emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the conduct of security agencies and the violent disruptions caused by allegedly hired thugs.
The organization stressed that the commission must operate transparently and possess sufficient resources to effectively carry out its duties.
These resources include adequate financial support, expertise in criminal investigation, forensic analysis, legal analysis, witness protection, and data management.
“The commission must conduct its work publicly and must also be resourceful enough to carry out its functions. This includes adequate financial support, plus expertise in criminal investigation, forensic analysis, legal analysis, witness protection, and data management,” Amnesty International stated.
The human rights organization warned that failing to investigate the killings and destruction that occurred in Kano from August 1st to the present would represent a significant setback for the rule of law. Moreover, it would further entrench the already pervasive culture of impunity in Nigeria.
“For an effective investigation that can lead to justice, victims, their families, and potential witnesses must be protected from being influenced, harassed, threatened, ill-treated, or subjected to reprisals. This protection is essential to ensure they can make submissions to the panel without fear,” Amnesty International added.
The organization also highlighted the importance of the Kano state government ensuring that the panel has the authority to make recommendations aimed at bringing the perpetrators of the alleged violations to justice.
