Thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State have taken matters into their own hands, venturing into nearby forests to confront bandits and rescue their abducted relatives, citing the persistent failure of security forces to protect them.
The group, consisting of both men and women, is determined to rescue 150 kidnapped villagers and recover the body of the slain district head of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa.
Reports from August 21, 2024, indicated that the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, was brutally killed by bandits after being kidnapped, tortured, and dehumanized. Just days after this horrific incident, the bandits attacked Gobir town again, abducting over 150 mourners, according to Professor Bello Bada of Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto.
The kidnappings occurred between the time of the emir’s murder and last Friday, sparking outrage among the residents.
Despite these reports, the Nigerian police have denied the claims. “We’re not aware of the kidnapping of 150 people in the Gobir Emirate of Sokoto State,” said ASP Ahmed Rufai, the spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command.
Nevertheless, a viral video shows thousands of Gobir residents marching into the forest, chanting war songs and calling upon Allah for strength. “It’s a fight to the finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back,” they declared, emphasizing their resolve.
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