In a shocking turn of events, the peaceful tranquility of Sansani chiefdom in Taraba State was shattered as assailants stormed the palace of Alhaji Abdulmutalib Jankada, resulting in his tragic assassination.
The 48-year-old traditional ruler was brutally gunned down by unidentified gunmen who infiltrated his palace at approximately 10 p.m. on Thursday. The Taraba State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Kwache Bajabu Gambo, confirmed the grim news and announced the launch of a vigorous manhunt to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Describing the chilling incident, DSP Kwashe revealed that the assailants, wielding firearms, brazenly invaded the sanctuary of the traditional ruler, executing their heinous act with impunity. Despite swift response from detectives attached to the Gassol division, the attackers managed to flee the scene, leaving behind only a haunting silence and an empty shell of an AK47.
Reports indicate that the assailants, cunningly navigating through the night on motorcycles, stealthily infiltrated the palace grounds before swiftly executing their deadly mission. In the aftermath of the brutal attack, the assailants callously stripped the late chief of his mobile phones before disappearing into the darkness, leaving behind a community in shock and mourning.
This tragic incident marks a harrowing chapter in the life of Alhaji Abdulmutalib Jankada, who had previously endured a traumatic abduction along the perilous Jalingo-Wukari Road two years prior. His release, secured only after a ransom was paid, served as a stark reminder of the prevailing dangers lurking within the region.
As the community grapples with the devastating loss of their revered leader, the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement authorities offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of this senseless tragedy.