T
he son of the late district head of Gatawa in Sokoto State, Isa Bawa, who tragically died while in captivity, has been released by his abductors after a ransom was paid. The ransom, which included N60 million and five motorcycles, was handed over to secure the son's release. His elder brother, Surajo Isa, confirmed the release, stating that the son returned from the bandits' den around 8:30 p.m.
The elder Isa also confirmed that their father, who had been abducted alongside his son and brother 25 days ago, passed away while in captivity and was buried by the abductors.
Hon. Aminu Boza, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, reported that the late monarch's son, Alhaji Kabir Isa, is currently receiving treatment at Usman Danfodio Teaching Hospital in Sokoto.
The district head's death was confirmed by multiple sources on Wednesday. Mahe Mukhtar, a resident of Gatawa, verified the news, stating that the office of the deceased had confirmed the death, and a condolence message had been issued by the representative of Isa-Sabon Birni federal constituency. Shuaibu Gwanda Gobir, the Magajin Garin Sabon Birni and cousin to the deceased, also confirmed the passing.
Reports indicate that a prominent traditional ruler in Shinkafi was involved in negotiations for the release of the captives. Upon arrival at the bandits' location, the negotiator discovered the body of the late monarch and advised that no further ransom should be sent. Consequently, the family was instructed not to proceed with the payment and the delivery of the motorcycles.
