From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sarkin Kudun Gatawa in Gatawa District of Sokoto State who was kidnapped 23 days ago by bandits, has appealed to the Sokoto State government, Sultanate Council and his relatives to pay his ransom before the deadline.
Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa was abducted along Sokoto to Sabon Birni road on his way to his home town, Sabon Birni local government area of the state.
The bandits during the weekend have released a video clip of the traditional ruler in their captivity who is seen begging for his rescue.
In the video, the District Head, Alhaji Muhammad, is seen pleading with the government to pay the ransom, saying that the bandits have given him a deadline and will kill him if they do not receive the money.
The traditional ruler who was kidnapped about 23 days ago, is seen with his clothes stained with blood and his hands and legs tied with chains.
“And I am still seeking their help, but the government has not helped me. 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 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 Assembly, Aminu Boza, has confirmed that the person in the video is indeed the Emir.
Boza said in the video, the Emir says: “I am appealing to my brothers, friends, and leaders to help me. Today (Wednesday) is the last day, so if they want to help me, they should do it now.”
He also swore by Allah that the bandits had given him a deadline and would kill him if they did not receive the ransom.
However, a message from the family of the Emir of Gobir, Sabon Birni, and the current Emir of Kudun Gatawa said they are in a state of shock, sadness, and confusion.
“We are in a situation that we never thought we would find ourselves in,” the families of the Emir said.
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.
Now, our father’s blood has been spilt, and whoever sees his condition will be shocked and saddened.
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.
