Kebbi Police Confirms The Passing Of Popular Islamic Cleric in Bandits’ Captivity

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that a prominent Islamic cleric abducted by bandits, Alhaji Muhammad Maibarga, is feared to have died while in captivity, although security agencies are still working to verify reports surrounding his condition and fate.

The development has sparked concern across Kebbi State, where residents have continued to grapple with recurring cases of kidnapping, banditry, and violent attacks in several communities.

Speaking on the matter, the spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, SP Bashir Usman, disclosed that security authorities were aware of reports indicating that the cleric’s health had deteriorated significantly while being held by his captors.

According to him, law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the reports while intensifying efforts to rescue other victims who remain in the custody of armed criminal groups.

“We are aware of reports concerning the victim’s deteriorating condition and possible death in captivity,” the police spokesperson stated.

He added that security forces have maintained ongoing search-and-rescue operations across affected areas, particularly in Koko-Besse and Wasagu Local Government Areas, where bandit attacks and abductions have become a major security challenge.

Abduction Kept Away From Public Initially

Reports indicate that the cleric’s abduction was not immediately made public by family members and community leaders.

The incident only gained wider attention after inquiries by journalists and concerned residents brought details of the kidnapping to light.

Sources revealed that Maibarga was abducted alongside a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko-Besse Local Government Area during an attack by suspected bandits.

The incident added to the growing list of high-profile abductions that have occurred in parts of Kebbi State in recent years.

Disturbing Video Emerged From Captivity

Public concern intensified after a video surfaced online showing the kidnapped cleric and the former APC chairman speaking from what appeared to be their captors’ hideout.

In the emotional footage, the two elderly men appealed for help, describing the difficult conditions they were enduring while in captivity.

They reportedly spoke about declining health, exhaustion, and the harsh treatment they were receiving from the bandits.

The former APC chairman lamented that despite their advanced age and medical conditions, they were forced to trek long distances through forests and rough terrain under difficult circumstances.

Both men appealed to their families, traditional rulers, community leaders, and government authorities to do everything possible to secure their release.

The video generated widespread sympathy and concern, with many Nigerians taking to social media to call for urgent intervention by security agencies and government officials.

Community Holds Funeral Prayer in Absence of Body

As reports of the cleric’s death spread, residents of his community reportedly organised Salatul Gha’ib, an Islamic funeral prayer performed for a deceased person whose body is unavailable for burial.

Community members gathered to pray for the late cleric, even though his remains have not been recovered and official confirmation of his death is still being awaited.

The development has left many residents grieving while hoping that security agencies can provide clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding his reported death.

Police Vow to Continue Rescue Efforts

Despite the reports, the police have assured the public that operations against bandit groups remain ongoing.

Security agencies say they are continuing efforts to locate criminal hideouts, rescue kidnapped victims, and dismantle armed gangs responsible for attacks in various parts of the state.

Authorities also urged residents to continue supporting security operations by providing credible intelligence that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators.

The latest incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing several communities in northwestern Nigeria, where banditry, kidnapping, and rural attacks continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.

As investigations continue, many residents remain hopeful that the remaining captives will be rescued safely and that those responsible for the abduction will be brought to justice.