The Katsina State government has confirmed that kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N30million for the release of Abdulsalam Rabiu-Faskari, the winner of the National Quranic Recitation Competition, along with his father and brother.
It was gathered that trio was abducted earlier this week while travelling from Katsina to Faskari.
The state government also dismissed rumours that Rabiu-Faskari and his family members had been killed by their captors.
The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu-Zango, clarified the situation in a statement issued on Friday.
The statement read, “The attention of the Katsina State Government has been drawn to recent media reports and condolence messages from the Kebbi State Government suggesting that the kidnapped Quranic recitation champion, who is also a final-year medical student at Ahmadu Bello University, has been killed by his abductors.”
Dr. Salisu-Zango reassured the public that credible information reaching the government confirms that Rabiu-Faskari and his family members are still alive and in captivity.
Rabiu-Faskari was abducted just days after being honored by Governor Dikko Radda for his exceptional performance in the National Quranic Recitation Competition held in Kebbi.
He was set to represent Nigeria in the upcoming international edition of the contest.
The state government has condemned the abduction and assured that security agencies are making concerted efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
Meanwhile, the government has urged the public to disregard unverified reports and remain hopeful for the safe return of Rabiu-Faskari and his family.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Salisu-Zango stated that as of Friday, the kidnappers were demanding a ransom of N30million from the victim’s family.
The commissioner quoted Governor Radda as condemning the abduction of the young, talented student, along with his father and brother, calling it an unfortunate incident.
“My thoughts are with the victims, their family, relatives, and friends. We pray for their safe return,” Radda said.
He assured that the government was taking concrete steps to rescue the abducted victims and ensure their safe return.
The governor urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the state’s security challenges.
Radda also called on residents to offer fervent prayers for the safety and freedom of Rabiu-Faskari and others still held captive by the kidnappers.
