Abductors demand N30m ransom for winner of Quranic recitation competition, father, brother

THE Katsina State government on Saturday said the winner of the Quranic recitation competition, Abdulsalam Rabiu-Faskari, his father and brother are still alive, but in the den of their abductors.

The state government also confirmed that the abductors had contacted the family members, asking for the sum of N30 million as ransom.

This was contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr Bala Salisu-Zango, on Friday night in Katsina, the state capital.

It could be recalled that the victims were abducted two days ago on their way to Faskari from Katsina, after they were honoured by Governor Dikko Radda, for his performance during the National Qur’anic recitation competition held in Kebbi State.

“The attention of the Katsina State government has been drawn to the recent media reports and condolence messages contained in a press statement signed by Special Adviser to Kebbi State Governor on Media and Publicity.

“It was to the effect that the kidnapped winner of National Qur’anic recitation competition and ABU final year Medical student from Katsina State, Abdussalam Rabiu-Faskari, was killed by his abductors.

“We appreciate the kind gesture, concern and compassion shown by the Kebbi State government over the unfortunate incident,

“We, however, wish to state that the Quranic recitation competition winner, Rabiu-Faskari, his father and brother were really abducted by bandits.

“But information reaching the government indicates that they are still alive and healthy in the custody of their abductors,” he said.

Salisu-Zango further said that, as of Friday, their abductors were demanding a ransom of N30 million from their family.

The commissioner quoted Radda as describing the abduction of the young talented student, alongside his father and brother as unfortunate.

“My heart is with the victims, their family, relatives and friends, and we pray they safely regain freedom.

“Government will take concrete actions to rescue and ensure the safe return of all the abducted victims, as rescue efforts are being put in place,” Radda said.

The governor then urged the security agents to put all hands on deck to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.

Radda reiterated the commitment of his administration to addressing the prevailing security challenges in the state.

He further called on the people to fervently pray for the safety and freedom of Rabiu-Faskari and all others in the hands of those abductors.

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