Alhaji Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Kudun Gatawa of Gatawa District in Sokoto State, has reportedly died while in captivity.
His death was confirmed on Wednesday afternoon by one of his sons, who stated that the family had been notified of his passing.
The monarch had been abducted approximately a month ago and was recently seen in a viral video pleading with the Sokoto State Government, the Sokoto Sultanate Council, and his friends and family to assist in paying the ransom before the captors’ deadline.
Alhaji Bawa reported that the bandits had set a deadline for the ransom payment, threatening to kill him if it was not paid by then.
The traditional ruler, seen in the video with his blood-stained clothes as well as chained hands and legs said, “I am seeking the help of the government. I am their servant, and I have served them for 74 years, including 45 years in government service.
“I have always been in the service of the government, and it is the government’s responsibility to help me.”
