Bandits kill Kaduna cleric for criticising attacks, kidnappings

Some gunmen in separate attacks have killed two persons, including an Islamic cleric, in two local government areas of Kaduna State.

The state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, explained that security agencies had raised the alarm that armed bandits had invaded Kawaran Rafi village in Igabi LGA and killed one Danleeman Isah, who was the chief imam of the village.

Aruwan said, “The bandits moved straight to Isah’s residence and, in what appears to be a pre-meditated murder, shot him dead and left the location without taking any items or hostages. The murder of the cleric has been linked to his vocal stance against the killings and kidnappings by bandits.

“It is similar to the killing of Ardo Musa Layi of Kajuru LGA,  kidnapped and killed by bandits in October 2020 for his advocacy against killings, kidnappings and cattle rustling.

“Also similar was the shooting of Ardo Ahmadu Suleiman by bandits at Kasuwan Magani, Kajuru LGA, leaving him with bullet wounds.”

The commissioner noted that security agencies reported the murder of the Sarkin Yaki of Godogodo, Mr Yohanna Abu, by a gang of kidnappers.

He added that the gunmen attacked Nisama village in Jema’a LGA late on Friday night, and abducted Abu, along with another resident, Mr Charles Audu.

“A struggle ensued between the duo and the kidnappers, and while Audu was able to escape, the kidnappers shot Abu dead,” Aruwan said.