The District Head of Gatawa, Isa Muhammad Bawa, who was abducted along with his son and brother, has reportedly died in captivity.
Multiple sources, including relatives, have confirmed his death, though the abductors themselves did not disclose this information.
Gatawa resident, Mahe Mukhtar noted that the deceased’s office confirmed the death, and a condolence message was issued by the member representing Isa-Sabon Birni federal constituency.
Shuaibu Gwanda Gobir, the victim’s cousin and Magajin Garin Sabon Birni, also confirmed the death. “It is true that Sarkin has died. He passed away around 5:53 p.m. on Wednesday,” Gwanda-Gobir said.
He reported that a prominent traditional ruler in Shinkafi informed them of the death.
The traditional ruler had sent a negotiator to continue discussions with the bandits for the release of the monarch, his son, and brother.
Upon arrival, the negotiator discovered the deceased’s body and reported that no ransom should be sent as the monarch was already dead.
Consequently, the traditional ruler instructed that the planned delivery of money and motorcycles be canceled.
Gwanda-Gobir added that the deceased’s family had been trying to reach him, but the abductors claimed he could not speak due to illness.
They were able to speak with his son, Kabiru, who was also captive and indicated that his father was in isolation due to sickness.
Gwanda-Gobir suspects that the messages were dictated by the abductors.
In contrast, a source familiar with the negotiations, who wished to remain anonymous, suggested that the monarch had not been killed but had died from illness.
This source claimed the bandits would not have killed him as they were eager to collect the ransom.
Another cousin, also speaking anonymously, mentioned that the bandits had provided information on where to retrieve the body.
Hon. Aminu Boza, the member representing Sabon Birni (North) State Constituency, confirmed that negotiations were in progress with the bandits for the Emir’s release, with an agreement on a N60 million ransom and new motorcycles.
The delivery was delayed due to specific motorcycle models, referred to as “Boko Haram” models.
Although the motorcycles were obtained that day, the bandits did not contact their negotiator, who normally receives calls at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
ASP Ahmed Rufa’i, the spokesman for the Sokoto Police Command, said he was not aware of the situation.
