In a desperate and courageous move, thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State have taken matters into their own hands, storming nearby forests to confront the bandits responsible for the abduction of over 150 people, including mourners of the recently slain district head, Isa Mohammad Bawa. The residents, made up of both men and women, have vowed to rescue their abducted loved ones, citing the failure of security forces to protect their community.
The tragic events began on August 21, 2024, when bandits brutally murdered the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa. The assailants reportedly abducted, tortured, and dehumanized the traditional ruler before killing him. In the days following his gruesome murder, the bandits launched another attack on Gobir town, abducting over 150 mourners who were paying their respects to the late ruler, according to Professor Bello Bada of Usman Dan Fodio University in Sokoto.
Despite the Nigerian police denying the mass abduction, with ASP Ahmed Rufai, spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, stating, “We’re not aware of the kidnapping of 150 people in the Gobir Emirate of Sokoto State,” the residents have taken the situation into their own hands. In a viral video circulating online, thousands of Gobir residents can be seen marching into the forests, chanting war songs and invoking the name of Allah as they prepare to confront the bandits head-on.
“It’s a fight to finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back,” the residents chanted, expressing their determination to either rescue their abducted compatriots or face the bandits in a showdown.
The situation highlights the growing frustration and desperation among communities in northern Nigeria, where banditry and kidnappings have become rampant. The residents’ bold action underscores their loss of faith in the ability of security forces to protect them and their willingness to risk their lives to defend their community.
As the residents of Gobir continue their mission, the outcome remains uncertain. Still, their resolve sends a powerful message about the lengths ordinary citizens are willing to go to reclaim their safety and security.
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