A man abducted alongside a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has reportedly died while being held by armed kidnappers, raising fresh concerns about the fate of the surviving captive.
The tragic development comes days after a video surfaced online showing the two elderly men appealing for help from captivity. In the footage, they described the harsh conditions they were enduring and pleaded with their families, community leaders, and authorities to intensify efforts toward securing their freedom.
Death Confirmed by Security Analyst
The death was disclosed by Katsina-based security analyst and conflict reporter Bakatsine, who shared the update on social media.
According to him, the deceased was a close friend and associate of the former APC chairman of Koko-Besse Local Government Area in Kebbi State. Both men were reportedly kidnapped together and had remained in captivity since their abduction.
Bakatsine expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and offered prayers for the safe release of those still being held.
He also noted that the incident highlights the ongoing security challenges affecting communities across parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings and attacks by armed groups continue to pose significant threats to residents.
Fears Mount for Surviving Captive
The reported death has intensified fears for the former APC chairman, who remains in captivity.
In a video released before the latest development, the politician revealed that both captives were struggling with illness and deteriorating living conditions in the forest where they were being held.
Speaking directly to those he hoped could facilitate their release, he described the situation as unbearable and appealed for urgent intervention.
According to him, the captives had been forced to endure difficult conditions despite their advanced age and health concerns. He stated that they were regularly compelled to travel long distances on foot with their abductors while lacking adequate medical care.
Emotional Pleas From Captivity
The former APC chairman expressed frustration over what he perceived as a lack of progress in efforts to secure their release.
He said both men had repeatedly appealed for assistance but had yet to see any meaningful breakthrough. The politician warned that their health was rapidly declining and urged those in positions of influence to act before it was too late.
The second victim, identified as Yahya, also made an emotional appeal in the video before his reported death. He described the difficult conditions in captivity and called for immediate action to rescue them.
Harsh Living Conditions in the Forest
The surviving captive painted a grim picture of life inside the kidnappers’ camp, revealing that they lived in an environment surrounded by reptiles and other dangers.
He recounted a recent incident in which he narrowly escaped being bitten by a snake, underscoring the risks they faced daily in addition to illness and exhaustion.
The former APC chairman also reminded viewers of his previous role as a political leader in Koko-Besse Local Government Area, appealing for support and intervention to secure their freedom.
Authorities Yet to Respond
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Kebbi State Police Command reportedly yielded no immediate result.
At the time of reporting, the command’s spokesperson had not responded to calls or messages seeking comments on the situation.
As families and supporters mourn the loss of one hostage, attention now turns to the fate of the former APC chairman, whose condition remains uncertain while he continues to be held by his captors.
CLICK HERE TO COMMENT
Leave a Reply