Sokoto State based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bashar Danfili, has made a heartfelt appeal for public support after six of his family members were kidnapped by terror bandits tormenting the Northern region.
The kidnapped victims include a man, his mother, stepmother, two wives, and sister, all whisked away while traveling to an undisclosed village in the state.
In a video sighted by this paper, Sheikh Danfili revealed that the driver of the vehicle was shot dead on the spot, with the terrorists feeding his remains to their dogs.
According to the cleric, the criminal elements are demanding a huge ransom, which the family is unable to raise, with the deadline for payment drawing near.
While speaking on the situation, he said, “Several of my relatives have been taken, though I prefer not to reveal their names. They were attacked on their way to a village. The driver was killed immediately, and the bandits used his body to feed their dogs.”
He went on to explain that the captives include a husband and several women from the same family, and the ransom demanded by the kidnappers runs into millions of Naira.
“I am a scholar and have no significant financial means. My role is to teach from the books you see behind me. We are running out of time as the bandits have set a deadline, threatening to execute the hostages if the money isn’t paid. My fear is heightened, especially after hearing about the killing of a traditional ruler by his abductors in the state.”
Sheikh Danfili is now appealing to the public for urgent assistance to raise the ransom and ensure the safe release of his family members.