The death of the Gobir ruler in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa, at the hands of kidnappers has ignited a violent protest in Sabon Birni town.
Youths in the town blocked the entrance to the ancient city, hurling stones and other dangerous objects at vehicles in anger over the untimely death of their traditional ruler.
The unrest was reportedly triggered by a 25-second video clip posted by the late ruler’s son, who revealed that the kidnappers had informed him while in captivity that a prominent political figure in the area was responsible for the kidnapping and murder of his father.
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The son of the deceased, who was released by the kidnappers shortly after his father’s death, alleged that a politician in the area had paid the kidnappers N5 million to execute the traditional ruler. This claim further fueled the anger of the protesters, leading them to set ablaze several houses belonging to suspected politicians and party offices in the town.
Confirming the tragic incident, Aminu Boza, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, stated that Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa had endured severe torture and beatings at the hands of his abductors during the 25 days he spent in captivity.
According to Boza, the kidnappers initially demanded N900 million in ransom, which was later reduced to N500 million. However, neither the family nor the state government could raise the amount. Instead, N60 million and six motorcycles were provided as demanded by the bandits, but the traditional ruler was still killed despite the payment.
The son of the late ruler was released after the kidnappers received an additional N1 million and the motorcycles.
During his captivity, the abductors released a video showing the late ruler pleading with the Sokoto State government and the Sultanate Council to secure his release.
Alhaji Isah Muhammad Bawa was kidnapped on July 29, 2024, along the Sokoto-Sabon Birni Road after attending a meeting of traditional rulers in Sokoto.
His death has sparked outrage across the country, prompting President Tinubu to reassure Nigerians that his administration is actively addressing security threats to ensure the end of such incidents. The President also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Gobir Emirate, and the government of Sokoto State.
