Bandits Did Not Kill Hafiz Abdulsalam Rabi’u and His Father – Katsina State Government Debunks Rumors

The Katsina State Government has refuted reports claiming that bandits killed Hafizul Qur’an, Abdulsalam Rabi’u, and his father. It confirmed that they are still alive, with their abductors demanding N30 million as ransom for their release.

The Commissioner for Information and Culture in Katsina State, Dr. Bala Salisu-Zango, disclosed this to journalists, emphasizing that none of the kidnapped victims had been killed.

He stated that the Katsina government had received reports indicating that the Kebbi State Government was offering condolences over the alleged killing of the Hafiz. However, he clarified that the information was incorrect. "We appreciate the concern shown by the Kebbi State Government regarding this unfortunate incident, but we want to assure the public that those abducted are still alive in the custody of their captors," Salisu-Zango said.

The commissioner further revealed that on Friday, the state government received information that the kidnappers had demanded N30 million as ransom for the release of Abdulsalam and his relatives.

He added that Governor Dikko Radda is deeply concerned about the situation and is making every effort to ensure their safe release. The governor has also directed security agencies to take all necessary measures to rescue them unharmed.

It can be recalled that on Tuesday, March 11, bandits intercepted Hafiz Abdulsalam, his father, and five other relatives along the Bangori route between Yankara and Sheme, abducting them and taking them into the forest.

Hafiz Abdulsalam Rabi’u emerged as the winner of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition (Hizb 60 with Tajweed) held in Kebbi State. As a result, Governor Dikko Radda invited him to the Katsina State Government House for a special recognition ceremony on Tuesday. Unfortunately, while returning home to Faskari, he and his family were abducted by bandits.