Ex-Taraba Emirate official arrested over kidnap, killing of Emir’s family members

Nigerian troops have apprehended Alhaji Nafi’u Yahaya, the former accountant of the Mutum Biyu Emirate Palace in Taraba State, in connection with the kidnapping and murder of seven family members of Emir Justice Sani Sulaiman.

This arrest follows allegations that Yahaya led a gang responsible for the heinous crime, which occurred in February 2023.

Reports indicate that in February 2023, the emir’s wives and children were abducted from their private residence in Jalingo, the state capital.

Tragically, the victims were killed days later. Yahaya’s arrest came after police detained a suspected kidnapper in Abuja, who implicated him as a supplier of AK-47 rifles used in kidnappings.

In a shocking confession shared via a viral video, Yahaya openly admitted to his involvement with kidnappers.

“My name is Nafi’u Yahaya, and I am 48 years old. I was arrested for being involved in kidnapping activities,” he stated.

He also identified Gambo Jimeta, a resident of Mutum Biyu, as a key accomplice who provided two kidnappers and supplied the firearms.

Yahaya’s confession revealed the extent of his criminal activities, stating, “I have one AK-47, and Jimeta also has one AK-47 that we used for kidnapping.” This chilling admission underscores the violent criminal network operating within the region.

The arrest has sent shockwaves through Taraba State, raising concerns about security and the alarming rise in kidnapping incidents.

The authorities are now under pressure to investigate further and bring all those involved to justice as residents grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy.