Tears as popular Sokoto traditional ruler dies in bandits den

Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Kudun Gatawa of Gatawa District in Sokoto State, has tragically died while in the captivity of bandits.

His death was confirmed on Wednesday afternoon by one of his sons, who revealed that the family had been informed of the devastating news.

Alhaji Bawa was kidnapped nearly a month ago, and just days before his death, a distressing video emerged online. In the video, the traditional ruler, appearing in blood-stained clothes with his hands and legs bound in chains, pleaded urgently for help. He called on the Sokoto State Government, the Sokoto Sultanate Council, and his loved ones to pay the ransom demanded by his captors before the deadline set by the bandits.

In his plea, Alhaji Bawa said, “I am seeking the help of the government. I am their servant, and I have served them for 74 years, including 45 years in government service. I have always been in the service of the government, and it is the government’s responsibility to help me.”

Despite his heartfelt appeals, the ransom was not paid in time, leading to the tragic loss of the respected traditional leader. His death is a somber reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing the region and a heartbreaking moment for the Gatawa District.

More details are expected to follow as the community mourns this profound loss.