Gunmen in northwestern Nigeria have tragically killed an influential traditional ruler, Isa Bawa, the Emir of Gobir, after he was held captive for three weeks. The killing occurred following delays in ransom payment, despite ongoing negotiations. The monarch’s death comes just days after he appeared in a video pleading for his release.
The 73-year-old emir and his son were abducted on their way to Sabon Birni, near the Niger border, after attending a meeting in Sokoto, the regional capital. The region has long been terrorised by bandits who carry out kidnappings, raids, and violent attacks on villages from their forest hideouts.
“His Highness was shot dead by his captors yesterday (Tuesday) while negotiations were ongoing to pay the ransom they demanded,” confirmed Shuaibu Gwanda Gobir, a member of the council of kingmakers in Gobir emirate. The negotiators, who were sent to secure the emir’s release, found his body at the bandits’ camp after the deadline for payment had passed.
The bandits had set a Tuesday deadline for the ransom and threatened to kill the emir if the money was not paid. Unfortunately, their threat was carried out, and the emir’s body has yet to be released by the assailants. Efforts are now focused on securing the release of his son, who remains in captivity.
This tragic incident shows the severe security challenges posed by criminal gangs in the region, where farming and herding communities have been displaced, agriculture has been disrupted, and food security is under constant threat.
Nigerian traditional rulers, though lacking constitutional powers, play key cultural roles and hold considerable influence over their communities. Their patronage can be vital during elections and in garnering public support for government policies.
The killing of Emir Isa Bawa adds to the list of attacks on traditional rulers in Nigeria, with previous incidents involving Boko Haram militants, who have also targeted monarchs in the northeast.