The tragic death of Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa, the ruler of Gobir in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, at the hands of kidnappers, has ignited widespread protests in Sabon Birni town.
Angry youths took to the streets, barricading the entrance to the ancient city and hurling stones and other dangerous objects at passing vehicles in response to the untimely death of their traditional leader.
According to Vanguard, the unrest was reportedly triggered by a 25-second video clip, allegedly posted by the late ruler’s son, Bawa. In the video, Bawa claimed that while he was held captive, the gunmen informed him that a prominent political figure in the area was behind his father’s abduction and murder.
Bawa, who was released shortly after his father’s death, further alleged that the political figure had paid the kidnappers N5 million to carry out the killing. In retaliation, protesters set fire to several houses belonging to suspected politicians in the town, as well as to party offices.
Aminu Boza, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, confirmed the death of Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, who endured 25 days in captivity after being abducted alongside his son by suspected gunmen. Boza revealed that the district head succumbed to severe torture and beatings inflicted by the bandits.
Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N900 million, which was later reduced to N500 million.
However, neither the family nor the state government could meet these demands.
Ultimately, N60 million and six motorcycles were provided to the kidnappers, but the traditional ruler was killed even after the ransom was paid.
It was reported that Bawa’s son was released after a separate payment of N1 million and the delivery of six motorcycles.
During his captivity, the abductors released a video showing the late traditional ruler pleading with the Sokoto State government and the Sultanate Council to secure his release.
Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa was kidnapped on July 29, 2024, along the Sokoto – Sabon Birni Road after attending a meeting of traditional rulers in Sokoto. He spent 25 harrowing days with his captors before his death.
The news of Bawa’s death has sparked outrage across the nation. President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is taking aggressive measures to eliminate security threats and end the wave of insecurity in the country.
He also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Gobir Emirate, and the government of Sokoto State. Many other prominent Nigerians and groups have condemned the incident.
(allnews.ng)
Leave a Reply