According to reports, the perpetrators demanded a ransom of N20 million and allegedly raped the woman after collecting the money.
The village head of Mantau in Yarmaulu, Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State, Iliya Mantau, has been dethroned by the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruq Umar Faruq, over his alleged involvement in a harrowing case of kidnapping and rape.
This was contained in an announcement made by the Emir on Monday, following widespread protests by youths in Yarmaulu who accused the traditional leader and unnamed accomplices of abducting a woman identified as Zulaihatu and her infant child.
According to reports, the perpetrators demanded a ransom of N20 million and allegedly raped the woman after collecting the money.
The incident, which reportedly occurred nearly a year ago, has been under judicial review but had generated public outrage due to the perceived inaction by traditional authorities.
The delay in taking decisive steps against the accused village head fuelled a community-led protest last week, which forced the Daura Emirate Council to reevaluate the matter.
Reacting to the developments, Emir Faruq stated that the Emirate would never condone abuse of any form, particularly when it involves those in positions of authority.
“This Emirate has previously removed a traditional leader it had appointed, and even Sarki Abdurrahman once ordered the imprisonment of his own son over wrongdoing. That is why we will never condone the abuse of anyone,” the Emir declared.
He reiterated that the Daura Emirate remains an institution of the people, guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and accountability.
“If anyone feels wronged, even if it is my own child who is responsible, they should come forward and present their complaint to the Emirate. This is an Emirate of the people,” the Emir said during his announcement.
Emir Faruq emphasised that traditional rulers are not above the law and must be held accountable for their actions.
He stated that effective from Monday, Iliya Mantau ceases to be the village head of Mantau, and that the Emirate would soon appoint a new leader who upholds justice and moral responsibility.
This decisive action by the Emirate sends a clear message that traditional institutions must take their custodianship roles seriously and act swiftly to protect the rights and dignity of the people they serve.
The Emir also warned residents against spreading misinformation and encouraged citizens to continue using legal and traditional avenues to address grievances, assuring them that their voices would be heard.
The case has cast a spotlight on the growing demand for accountability among traditional leaders in Nigeria. With increased awareness and advocacy for human rights, local communities are no longer hesitant to speak out against injustices, even when the accused are high-ranking figures.
Observers have commended the Emir’s decision as a step in the right direction, calling it a much-needed example of leadership rooted in justice.
Civil society groups in Katsina State have also urged the government and the Emirate to ensure that justice is fully served through the courts.
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