Gunmen abduct traditional ruler in Niger

Gunmen have abducted Mahmud Aliyu, the Dodo of Wawa, a traditional ruler in New Bussa, headquarters of Borgu LGA of Niger state.

The traditional ruler was reportedly abducted from his palace on Saturday.

Wasiu Abiodun, police spokesperson in Niger, confirmed the incident to TheCable on Sunday.

Abiodun said security operatives have been deployed to arrest the culprits and rescue the victim.

“While police tactical team and members of the vigilante of the area have been deployed for manhunt of the hoodlums to rescue the victim and arrest the culprits,” he said.

In a related development, bandits have killed 15 persons in Magami village, Shiroro LGA of Niger.

Yusuf Kokki, co-convener, Concerned Shiroro Youths, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday.

Kokki said the incident took place on Thursday and that local vigilantes and hunters ultimately repelled the bandits.

“By reliable records, no fewer than fifteen people have gruesomely been murdered by the marauding criminals,” he said.

“Six people were confirmed dead at Unguwan Magiro under Madaka Ward, Rafi local government area, four people at Farin Hula and five people at Magami and environs all under Manta Ward of Shiroro local government. While scores of others are still missing – probably killed too.”

Kokki said the residents of Magami have fled to Kuta, the headquarters of Shiroro LGA, for safety.