Katsina monarch removed for sponsoring kidnapping

The Village Head of Mantau in Yam-Maulu community in Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State, Iliya Dakaci, has been removed.

The Emir of Daura in Katsina State, Faruq Umar-Faruq, announced this on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

The decision announced in Daura by the emir followed a protest by the residents of the area, demanding his removal over his alleged involvement in kidnapping.

The residents of the area had last Wednesday staged a peaceful protest, calling for the removal of Dakaci, who was also the representative of the District Head of Yan-Maulu.

The protesters said Dakaci was arrested about eight months ago, after his name was mentioned by suspected kidnappers who abducted and raped the family of a philanthropist in the area, Sidi Usman-Waziri.

The protesters accused the dethroned monarch of playing a direct role in the abduction of a married woman, Zulaihatu, and her infant child in 2022, until N20 million ransom was paid.

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The emir reiterated that the Daura emirate would not tolerate any form of abuse against the residents, emphasising that the council remains open to all the citizens who wish to file complaints or report injustices.

He said: “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.”

Effective from Monday, May 19, the emir announced that Dakaci ceases to be the village head of Mantau, adding that a new representative would be appointed to ensure a leadership based on justice and integrity.

The Star