Kidnapped Traditional Ruler Appeals for Ransom Payment
Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Kudun Gatawa from Gatawa District in Sokoto State, has issued a desperate plea to the Sokoto State Government, Sultanate Council, and his family to pay the ransom demanded by his captors. Bawa, who was abducted 23 days ago, fears for his life as the bandits have set a deadline for the ransom payment.
In a video released over the weekend, Bawa, wearing blood-stained clothes with his hands and legs bound, pleaded for urgent assistance. He stated, “I am asking for the government’s help. I have served them for 74 years, including 45 years in government service. It is their duty to assist me in this dire situation.”
He also called on the Sokoto Sultanate Council to intervene, highlighting that at least 86 other victims are also held by the bandits. “I urge the authorities, my children, and my relatives to act swiftly. I am in distress, and only Allah knows my plight. For the sake of Allah and His Prophet, I appeal for protection and rescue,” Bawa said.
Honourable Aminu Boza, a member of the State House of Assembly, confirmed that the man in the video is indeed the abducted traditional ruler.
The family of the Emir of Gobir, Sabon Birni, and the current Emir of Kudun Gatawa expressed their profound shock and sorrow over the incident. They revealed, “We are in a situation we never anticipated. Despite informing relevant authorities, our pleas went unheeded. We are negotiating with the bandits to secure our father’s release, but they insist on government intervention for his freedom.”
