The Sarkin Kudun Gatawa in Gatawa District of Sokoto state, Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, who was kidnapped 23 days ago has appealed to the Sokoto State Government, Sultanate Council and his relatives to pay ransom for his freedom before the deadline set by his captors.
Alhaji Bawa, in a released video clip over the weekend, was seen pleading with the government to pay the ransom, saying that the bandits had issued a deadline for the payment failure of which he would be will killed.
The traditional ruler, seen in the video with his blood-stained clothes as well as chained hands and legs said, “I am seeking the help of the government. I am their servant, and I have served them for 74 years, including 45 years in government service.
“I have always been in the service of the government, and it is the government’s responsibility to help me.
“The Sokoto Sultanate Council should intervene as, at least 86 victims are in the bandits’ den. You should be aware of our situation, and if they do not help me, no one will.
”I appeal to the authorities, my children, and my relatives to look into my situation and come to my aid.
“Today, I have no peace, and Allah knows that. Therefore, for the sake of Allah and His Prophet, I seek protection for my life, and I beg whoever hears my plea to come to my rescue.”
A member of the State’s House of Assembly, Honourable Aminu Boza, confirmed the person in the video as the abducted Emir.
However, a message from the family of the Emir of Gobir, Sabon Birni, and the current Emir of Kudun Gatawa said they were in a state of shock, sadness, and confusion.
“We are in a situation that we never thought we would find ourselves in.
“When the incident happened, we informed those who needed to know, but no one listened to us. Even those who listened did not take us seriously, and they did not take action.
“Despite this, we have continued to negotiate with the bandits to release our father, using all the resources and influence that Allah has given us.
“But they have refused to release him, saying that they will only release him if the government intervenes.”
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