Abducted Sokoto Monarch Dies in Captivity After Severe Torture by Kidnappers

The district head of Gatawa in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, Sokoto State, Alhaji Isa Mohammed Bawa, who was recently kidnapped by suspected gunmen, has died in captivity. His death was confirmed by Hon Aminu Almustapha Boza, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly representing Sabon Birni constituency.

Alhaji Bawa was abducted along with his son 25 days ago by gunmen believed to be bandits. According to Boza, the district head died after enduring severe torture and beatings at the hands of his captors. Despite the efforts of his family and the state government, they were unable to raise the ransom demanded by the abductors.

Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of 900 million naira, which was later reduced to 500 million. However, even this amount could not be gathered before the district head’s tragic death on Wednesday. Boza revealed that the ransom was eventually lowered to 60 million naira and six motorcycles, which were paid immediately. Despite this, the district head was killed by his captors.

“It’s shocking and heartbreaking to learn that after paying the ransom, they still went ahead and killed him,” Boza said, expressing his deep suspicion of foul play in the handling of the situation.

In contrast, the district head’s son, who was kidnapped alongside him, was released after the ransom was paid. The young man, who is currently receiving medical treatment, was freed on Wednesday, the same day his father was killed.

Last Tuesday, a video surfaced showing the late traditional ruler pleading for his release, addressing the Sokoto State government and the Sultanate Council. In the video, Alhaji Bawa begged for help, asking them to secure his freedom from the captors.

The tragic incident occurred on July 29, when Alhaji Bawa and his son were attacked and kidnapped along the Sokoto-Sabon Birni road after attending a meeting of traditional rulers in Sokoto, the state capital.

The late district head has since been buried according to Islamic rites, Boza confirmed. His death marks a significant loss for the Gatawa community and adds to the growing concerns about the security situation in the region.