It was another black weekend in Kaduna State as bandits killed a cleric and community leader in different local government areas.
Confirming the report, the State Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan said the cleric was killed in Igabi local government area for his stance against banditry and kidnapping.
Aruwan stated that the community leader was killed by kidnappers in Jema’a local government area.
He said security agencies had informed the State Government that the bandits invaded Kawaran Rafi village village in Igabi local government area, and killed one Danleeman Isah, the Chief Imam of the village.
Aruwan also stated that 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.
He said the murder of the cleric had been linked to his vocal stance against the killing and kidnapping of citizens by bandits.
The Commissioner said the incident was to the killing of Ardo Musa Layi of Kajuru local government, who was kidnapped and killed by bandits in October 2020 for his advocacy against killing, kidnapping and cattle rustling.
He stated that it was also similar to the shooting of Ardo Ahmadu Suleiman by bandits at Kasuwan Magani, Kajuru local government, leaving him with bullet wounds.
In another development, security agencies also reported the murder of the Sarkin Yaki of Godogodo, Mr Yohanna Abu, by a gang of kidnappers.
Aruwan said the gunmen attacked Nisama village in Jema’a local government area late on Friday night, and abducted Mr Abu along with another resident, Mr Charles Audu.
He said a struggle ensued between the duo and the kidnappers, and while Mr Audu was able to escape, the kidnappers shot Mr Abu dead.
The Commissioner said five persons had been arrested in connection with the killing, as security agencies continued to investigate the incident.
He said Governor Nasir el-Rufai expressed sadness at both reports, praying for the repose of the souls of the slain cleric and community leader, as he conveyed his heartfelt condolences to their families.
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