Rita Odafe
Isa Muhammad Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, along with his son and younger brother, were abducted by unidentified individuals who are demanding a ransom of ₦1 billion for their release.
Reports indicate that the abduction took place at Kwanan Maharba while the trio was returning from Sokoto last Saturday.
Confirming the incident, the Sole Administrator of Sabon Birni LGA, Garba Umar Kaba, expressed dismay at the persistent attacks on their communities despite security measures in place.
A source informed Daily Trust that the abductors contacted the Secretary of the Sarkin Gobir Sabon Birni, requesting the ransom, as negotiations continue.
The source mentioned, “But negotiation is ongoing because there is no way such amount can be raised.”
Similarly, Aminu Boza, the representative for Sabon Birni South, verified the abductors’ demands and stated that negotiations are in progress.
Boza expressed concern over the dire situation for locals in Sabon Birni and Isa LGA, where safety is uncertain.
Conversely, Kaba, the Sole Administrator of Sabon Birni LGA, claimed to be unaware of the situation and mentioned, “All I know is that the abductors have communicated that the district head, his son, and brother are in their custody and unharmed.”
