In Nigeria, Emir Kajuru in the state of Kaduna has returned home, three days after his kidnapping. Alhassan Adamu, 85, was abducted on Sunday with several family members by attackers known locally as “bandits”. His relatives are still being held.
Before Alhassan Adamu, the kidnapping of Agom Adara, a traditional leader, had already taken place in 2018. Despite the payment of a ransom, he had been killed by his captors.
At that time, he was in conflict with the governor of the state of Kaduna over the reorganization of Kajuru municipality. The governor wanted to establish an emirate system in this city in northern Nigeria, but Adara, of Christian denomination, did not agree. After his death, Alhassan Adamu succeeded him and became the first emir of the city of Kajuru that the governor had wanted.
For Adedayo Ademuwagun, a consultant at the Songhai Advisory Board, the fact that the emir was considered rich explains his kidnapping. “Given his affiliation with the state governor, it may have given the impression that he had the financial means and could pay either him, his family or the federal government if a ransom was required. The current situation is such that anyone can be kidnapped. Whether it is a traditional leader, a student, a businessman or a woman, a politician, everyone is a target. “
At present, the Nigerian authorities have not confirmed whether a ransom has been paid for the release of Alhassan Adamu. On the other hand, 13 members of his family are currently being held hostage.
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