In a bold and desperate move, thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State have taken matters into their own hands, storming the forests to confront armed bandits and rescue their kidnapped relatives. The daring mission, comprising both men and women, aims to liberate 150 compatriots who were recently abducted and to recover the remains of the district head, Isa Mohammad Bawa, who was brutally murdered by the bandits.....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE
The harrowing situation in Gobir escalated after the tragic death of Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District.
The respected traditional ruler was abducted, tortured, and dehumanized before being killed by his captors. In the days following his murder, the bandits launched another attack on Gobir town, abducting over 150 mourners, a situation confirmed by Professor Bello Bada of Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto.
Despite these reports, the Sokoto State Police Command has denied any knowledge of the mass abductions.
“We’re not aware of the kidnapping of 150 people in the Gobir Emirate of Sokoto State,” stated ASP Ahmed Rufai, spokesperson for the command.
However, the frustration and anger among the residents of Gobir have reached a boiling point, leading to their unprecedented decision to take direct action. In a viral video circulating on social media, thousands of Gobir residents are seen marching into the forest, chanting war songs and invoking the name of Allah.
“It’s fight to finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back,” the residents can be heard chanting, reflecting their determination and the dire situation they face.
As the situation unfolds, the bravery of these residents highlights the growing desperation in communities across northern Nigeria, where insecurity and banditry have left many feeling abandoned by the authorities.
The outcome of this self-organized mission remains uncertain, but the resolve of the people of Gobir serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis in the region.
