Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Kudun Gatawa in Gatawa District of Sokoto State, has been killed by bandits after being held captive for several weeks.
The Emir and his son were kidnapped in July while traveling from Sokoto to their hometown of Sabon Birni. The abductors initially demanded N1 billion in ransom for their release.
A video surfaced showing Emir Bawa pleading for help. In the video, he begged the Sokoto State Government, Sokoto Sultanate Council, and his relatives to pay the ransom before the deadline set by his captors. Bawa, who appeared with blood-stained clothes and chained hands and legs, highlighted his long service to the government and pleaded for assistance.
In the video, a gunman is heard dictating what the Emir should say. Despite the plea, the bandits killed the traditional ruler after the ransom was not paid in time.
