Emir of Daura Dethrones Village Head Over Alleged Kidnapping and Rape Case in Katsina State

 

In a decisive move to restore justice and uphold the dignity of the people, the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruq Umar Faruq, has officially dethroned Iliya Mantau, the Village Head of Mantau in Yarmaulu, Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State. The controversial traditional ruler was removed from his position following serious allegations of kidnapping and sexual assault involving a married woman and her infant child.

This significant action by the traditional authority has sparked wide discussions across Katsina State and beyond, particularly due to the gravity of the accusations and the delay in justice. It also highlights growing concerns about the misuse of traditional power and the rising expectations of accountability from both citizens and traditional institutions.

Background of the Allegations Against the Village Head

According to multiple sources and reports from community members in Yarmaulu, the dethroned village head, Iliya Mantau, was accused of playing a central role in a horrific criminal act that shocked the entire region. The incident involved the kidnapping of a woman named Zulaihatu, who is the wife of Alhaji Sidi, a respected resident of the community, along with her three-month-old baby.

Eyewitnesses and locals allege that after abducting the woman and her infant, a ransom of N20 million was demanded and collected by the perpetrators. Disturbingly, after the ransom was paid, Zulaihatu was reportedly raped by those involved in the abduction.

The story quickly spread across the community, leading to widespread public outrage and a series of protests, particularly among the youth of Yarmaulu, who took to the streets to demand immediate justice and the removal of Iliya Mantau from his traditional office.

Community Outrage and Youth Protest in Yarmaulu

Last week, the town of Yarmaulu witnessed a youth-led protest that drew attention from across Katsina State. Holding placards and chanting slogans, the young people accused the embattled village head of gross abuse of power and collaboration in criminal activities, particularly the horrifying case of rape and kidnapping.

The protesting youths did not only direct their frustration at Iliya Mantau but also questioned the silence and inaction of the Daura Emirate over the past year. According to them, the case had been pending in court for nearly a year, and yet the Emirate failed to take decisive action until now. They described the Emirate’s previous inaction as disappointing and a betrayal of trust, considering that the matter involved grave human rights violations.

Emir of Daura Breaks Silence and Takes Action

After months of silence and growing tension in the community, Alhaji Faruq Umar Faruq, the Emir of Daura, finally addressed the issue on Monday, May 19, 2025. In a formal announcement, the Emir declared the dethronement of Iliya Mantau with immediate effect.

The Emir emphasized that the Daura Emirate would not, under any circumstance, tolerate any form of abuse, injustice, or violation of human rights, regardless of who is involved. He made it clear that traditional institutions must uphold justice, fairness, and the protection of the people’s dignity, and any leader found wanting would face the full consequences.

In his words:

“If anyone feels wrong, even if it is my own child who is responsible, they should come forward and present their complaint to the Emirate. This is an Emirate of the people,” the Emir declared.

He continued:

“This Emirate has previously removed a traditional leader it had appointed, and even Sarki Abdurrahman once ordered the imprisonment of his own son over wrongdoing. That is why we will never condone the abuse of anyone.”

These powerful words underscore the Emir’s commitment to justice and set a precedent for other traditional rulers across Nigeria to follow.

Traditional Institutions and the Fight Against Injustice

The decision to remove Iliya Mantau has been described by many as a bold and courageous step by the Daura Emirate. In many parts of Nigeria, traditional institutions still play a vital role in local governance, dispute resolution, and moral leadership. However, when leaders within these institutions are accused of criminal activities or abuse of power, the entire system risks losing credibility and public trust.

This case raises a critical question: Should traditional rulers enjoy immunity from prosecution or disciplinary action? The answer, as clearly demonstrated by the Emir of Daura, is a resounding no.

The Daura Emirate’s position reflects a growing public demand for accountability, transparency, and fairness, even within sacred traditional hierarchies. It also emphasizes that no one is above the law, not even those who wear royal titles.

The Way Forward: New Leadership and Community Healing

Following the dethronement, the Emir assured the people of Mantau and Yarmaulu that a new village head will be appointed soon, one who will uphold justice, integrity, and community values. The Emirate promised to work with local leaders and security agencies to restore confidence among residents and ensure that such incidents do not repeat themselves.

He also issued a warning to the public against spreading unverified information or rumors, urging citizens to continue using legal and proper channels to report complaints or seek redress.

“We encourage all residents to channel their grievances through the appropriate authorities. Do not take the law into your own hands. We must build a community based on trust, respect, and justice,” the Emir said.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Traditional Leadership in Nigeria

The dethronement of Iliya Mantau by the Emir of Daura is not just a local administrative change—it is a powerful message to all traditional and community leaders across Nigeria. It signals that abuse of power, especially involving vulnerable members of society such as women and children, will not be tolerated. The action taken in Katsina State will undoubtedly set an example and encourage other traditional rulers to be more proactive and transparent.

For the people of Yarmaulu and the broader Baure LGA, this move offers hope for justice, healing, and reform. It is also a reminder that traditional institutions must evolve with the times, uphold democratic values, and remain truly accountable to the people they serve.

As Nigeria continues to confront challenges related to governance, justice, and security, cases like this demonstrate that meaningful change is possible—when leaders listen, act, and put the people first.

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