Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Kudun Gatawa in Sokoto state, who was kidnapped 23 days ago, has made a desperate appeal to the Sokoto State Government, Sultanate Council, and his relatives to pay the ransom demanded by his captors before the deadline expires.
In a video clip released over the weekend, Alhaji Bawa, seen with blood-stained clothes and chained hands and legs, begged for help, stating that the bandits had threatened to kill him if the ransom is not paid on time.
The traditional ruler, who has served the government for 74 years, including 45 years in government service, appealed to the authorities, his children, and relatives to intervene and secure his release.
A member of the State’s House of Assembly, Honourable Aminu Boza, confirmed the identity of the kidnapped Emir, while the family of the Emir of Gobir, Sabon Birni, and the current Emir of Kudun Gatawa expressed shock, sadness, and confusion over the situation.
The family stated that they had informed the necessary authorities but were ignored, and despite their efforts to negotiate with the bandits, they refused to release Alhaji Bawa without government intervention.
