Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Zamfara State, Nigeria
The Zamfara North Progressive Movement has voiced deep concern over the surge in armed banditry, senseless killings of innocent citizens, and the alarming trend of kidnapping for ransom in Zamfara State.
In a fervent plea via a press statement by the movement Chairman, Ahmed Abubakar Birane, the movement has urged the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) of the Police Command to expedite the investigation and prosecution of suspects to deter others from committing such heinous crimes.
Of particular distress is the prolonged delay in the investigation and prosecution of individuals involved in the abduction of Alhaji Ibrahim Sarkin Fada Kasuwar daji, a District Head, who was held captive for over six months by armed bandits. His release only came after his son, Hon. Anas Ibrahim S/Fada, a former State House of Assembly member, paid a hefty ransom.
The investigation into this case was initiated following the arrest of an armed bandit by security forces. During interrogation, the bandit implicated one Hali Sidi from Kaura Namoda, a hotspot for armed banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling. The banditry activities extended to various villages including Sakajiki, Kurya Madaro, and Kasuwar Daji, where Alhaji Ibrahim Sarkin Kasuwdaji was kidnapped.
Further interrogation revealed the involvement of Dansadiya, a notorious kingpin terrorizing Kaura Namoda, and his close association with Hali Sidi. Shockingly, it was disclosed that a serving member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Hon. Aminu Ibrahim, representing Kaura Namoda South, collaborated with Hali Sidi and Dansadiya in orchestrating the abduction of Hon. Anas S/Fada’s father, allegedly to intimidate him and his family into withdrawing from political activities in Kaura Namoda South.
Despite being arrested and detained by the State CID, Hon. Aminu Ibrahim was later released on bail under pressure, believed to be influenced by his political connections, notably with Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, a member of the House of Representatives. The political nature of the case raises concerns about impartiality in the pursuit of justice.
The Zamfara North Progressive Movement emphasizes the need for thorough investigation without favoritism, demanding the revocation of bail for Hon. Aminu Ibrahim until the completion of the inquiry. It is imperative that those involved in banditry and kidnapping face the full consequences of their actions, irrespective of their political affiliations.
The movement appeals to Governor Dauda Lawal and the Inspector General of Police to intervene decisively and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable under the law.