The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruk Umar, has removed from office Iliya Mantu, the village head of Mantau in Yarmaulu community of Baure Local Government Area, over his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and rape of a nursing mother.
According to palace sources, the victim, identified only as Zulaihatu, was abducted alongside her nursing baby last year by unidentified assailants. She was reportedly held captive for several days during which she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by her kidnappers.
The family of the victim allegedly paid a ransom of N20 million to secure her release. Following her ordeal, Zulaihatu's relatives pursued legal action, which reportedly implicated the now-deposed village head as a key figure behind the abduction.
The revelation triggered protests last week by youths in the community who demanded justice and called for Mantu's removal from his position of authority.
Responding to the growing public outcry, the Emir announced Mantu's dismissal on Monday evening, emphasizing that the Daura Emirate would not tolerate any abuse of its people, regardless of the offender's status.
"This emirate has previously removed a traditional leader it had appointed, and even Sarki Abdurrahman [former emir] once ordered the imprisonment of his own son over wrongdoing," the Emir stated during a palace address. "That is why we will never condone the abuse of anyone."
Alhaji Faruk Umar reiterated the emirate's commitment to justice and encouraged residents to report any form of injustice through proper legal channels.
"If anyone feels wronged, even if it's my own child who is responsible, they should come forward and present their complaint to the emirate. This is an emirate of the people," he declared.
The Emir announced that a new village head would be appointed soon and urged the incoming leader to serve the community with fairness and integrity.
While affirming his commitment to justice, the traditional ruler cautioned the public against spreading unverified information and encouraged residents to respect the rule of law as the case proceeds through appropriate legal channels.
