Kidnapping and Release of Emir of Gobir: A stain on governance in Sokoto, by Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
In a shocking and deeply troubling incident, the Emir of Gobir, a revered traditional ruler in Sokoto State, was kidnapped and subjected to harrowing torture by his captors. The abduction of such a prominent figure has sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting not only the growing insecurity in Nigeria but also the glaring failure of the Sokoto State government to protect its citizens and traditional institutions.
The Emir’s kidnapping comes at a time when the people of Sokoto were already grappling with concerns over the state’s leadership. Before his abduction, the Emir of Gobir had been demoted by the Sokoto State Governor, a move that raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about the motives behind it. This demotion not only undermined the Emir’s authority but also stripped his family of the ability to use their resources to secure his release when he was kidnapped.
READ ALSO: Days after crying for help, abducted emir dies in captivity
It is deeply disheartening that despite the gravity of the situation, there was no significant intervention from the Sokoto State government or the Governor. While the Emir languished in captivity, enduring unimaginable suffering, the state’s leadership remained alarmingly indifferent. The silence and inaction of Sokoto’s political and traditional stakeholders—including other Emirs, the Sarkin Muslim, Senators, members of the House of Representatives, and business leaders—further exacerbated the situation.
The lack of concerted effort to secure the Emir’s release is not only a disgrace to Sokoto State but also to Nigeria as a whole. The failure to protect a traditional ruler, who is a custodian of culture and a symbol of the people’s heritage, reflects poorly on the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens. This incident underscores the deep-seated issues of governance and accountability in Sokoto State.
As the Emir of Gobir has now been released, it is clear that divine intervention and the resilience of the human spirit were his true saviors. The Sokoto State government’s failure to act decisively in this critical moment has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Nigerians. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the need for responsible leadership that prioritizes the welfare of its people.
The people of Sokoto State must now reflect on the leadership they have entrusted with their future. The 2027 elections will provide an opportunity for them to make their voices heard and to vote out a government that has failed them in their time of need. The kidnapping and mistreatment of the Emir of Gobir will forever be a dark chapter in the history of Sokoto State, but it is up to the people to ensure that such a travesty is never repeated.
In the end, this incident should serve as a wake-up call for all Nigerians. The protection of our traditional institutions and leaders is not just the responsibility of the government but of every citizen. May Allah continue to protect and guide us all.
Honourable Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu is the Director General, Progressive Amalgamation of Northern Nigeria (PANN)
Phone. 08060017934
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