The death of Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa, the ruler of Gobir in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, at the hands of kidnappers has led to significant unrest in Sabon Birni town.
Local youths have blocked the entrance to the historic city, throwing stones and other objects at vehicles in response to the sudden death of their traditional leader due to criminal activities.
According to reports from Sunday Vanguard, the protest was triggered by a 25-second video clip allegedly shared by the late ruler’s son. The clip claimed that while in captivity, gunmen revealed to him that a prominent political figure in the region was behind the kidnapping and subsequent murder of his father.
After his father’s death, Bawa was released by the kidnappers and accused a local politician of offering them N5 million to ensure the traditional ruler’s death. Following these accusations, the protesters set fire to several houses belonging to suspected politicians and political party offices in the area.
Aminu Boza, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, confirmed the death of Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa, who was abducted along with his son. Boza reported that the district head endured severe torture and beatings during his 25-day captivity.
Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N900 million, which they later reduced to N500 million. However, the victim’s family and the state government were unable to meet this demand. Boza added that while N60 million and six motorcycles were eventually provided to the bandits, the kidnappers killed Bawa after receiving these items.
Reports indicate that Bawa’s son was released after the ransom and motorcycles were handed over. The abductors had previously released a video showing the traditional ruler pleading for help from the Sokoto State government and the Sultanate Council.
Bawa was abducted on July 29, 2024, while traveling along the Sokoto-Sabon Birni Road after attending a traditional rulers’ meeting. He spent 25 days in captivity before his death.
The news of Bawa’s death has provoked widespread outrage across Nigeria. President Tinubu has pledged that his administration is actively working to address security threats and promised improvements in security conditions. He extended his condolences to Bawa’s family, the Gobir Emirate, and the Sokoto State government. Other prominent Nigerians and organizations have also condemned the incident.
