Sokoto Residents Mobilize En Masse to Rescue Kidnapped Victims, Confront Bandits in Forests
In a dramatic and unprecedented move, over 20,000 residents of Gobir in Sokoto State have taken matters into their own hands, storming the forests to confront bandits and rescue their abducted relatives.
This mass mobilization follows the brutal murder of Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, the district head of Gobir, and the abduction of over 150 mourners during his funeral.
The residents, including both men and women, embarked on the perilous mission after losing faith in the ability of security forces to protect their community and recover the kidnapped victims.
The aim of their mission is twofold: to rescue the abducted and to retrieve the remains of their slain district head.
Reports indicate that the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, was abducted, tortured, and ultimately killed by bandits on August 21, 2024.
The tragedy intensified just days later when the bandits returned to Gobir town, kidnapping over 150 mourners during the funeral rites.
Despite the residents’ claims and viral videos showing thousands of people chanting war songs and invoking the name of Allah as they ventured into the forests, the Sokoto State Police Command has denied any knowledge of such kidnappings.
“We’re not aware of the kidnapping of 150 people in the Gobir Emirate of Sokoto State,” said ASP Ahmed Rufai, the police spokesperson.
In the videos circulating on social media, the residents are heard chanting, “It’s a fight to finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back,” as they march towards the forest, determined to take justice into their own hands.
This development highlights the escalating insecurity in the region and the growing frustration among local communities with the perceived inaction of the authorities.
