Abducted Winner Of Qur’anic Recitation Alive, N30m Ransom Demanded – Katsina Gov’t
The Katsina State government has refuted recent reports that Abdussalam Rabiu, the winner of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition and a final-year medical student, was killed by his abductors.
In a statement issued by the State’s Ministry of Information and Culture, spokesperson Bala Zango clarified that Abdussalam, along with his father and brother, who were kidnapped by bandits, are still alive. The statement further disclosed that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N30 million for the release of the three family members.
Governor Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed his deep sympathy for the victims, describing the kidnapping as an unfortunate event. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, relatives, and friends, and prayed for their safe return.
“I stand with the victims, their families, and all those concerned. We pray they regain their freedom unharmed,” Governor Radda said.
The governor assured that the state government was taking significant steps to ensure the safe release of Abdussalam and his family. He urged security agencies to intensify efforts in rescuing the abducted individuals, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to addressing insecurity in the state and combating all forms of crime.
Governor Radda also called on the public to pray for the safe return of the Rabiu family and all other victims of abduction in the region.
Abdussalam was kidnapped after receiving recognition for his exceptional performance at the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Kebbi State. The incident occurred as he was returning to Faskari Local Government Area in Katsina with his family.
The Katsina State Government acknowledged the concern expressed by the Kebbi State Government regarding the incident, but reassured the public that reports of Abdussalam’s death were false.
