Residents of Birnin Kebbi, the capital of Kebbi State in Nigeria, were shaken by the tragic shooting of Tukur Alhaji Salihu, a local car dealer, by operatives from the Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service. Salihu, aged 45 and a member of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria, was reportedly shot three times while seated in his vehicle. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries later that night, leaving behind two wives, seven children, and his elderly parents. A large public outcry erupted in response to this violent incident, reflecting a deepening concern over security and the conduct of law enforcement in the region.

The shooting occurred on February 7, 2026, during broad daylight on a busy road in Birnin Kebbi, underscoring the perceived lack of public safety in the area. Shehu Yusuf Bunza, the Secretary of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria in Kebbi, expressed shock over the event, labeling it as unacceptable. Such incidents heighten fears among the local population and paint a troubling picture of the interactions between citizens and law enforcement officials, raising questions about accountability in the use of force.

This incident may spark widespread calls for justice and reform within the Nigeria Customs Service and serve as a catalyst for broader discussions regarding police brutality and public safety in Nigeria. Advocacy groups and community leaders could leverage this moment to push for changes to ensure the protection of civilians and to foster a climate of trust between law enforcement agencies and the populations they serve, particularly in conflict-affected regions.