In a shocking turn of events, Alhaji Nafi’u Yahaya, the former accountant of the Mutum Biyu Emirate in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State, has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and brutal murder of the Emir’s wives and five children. This tragedy, which occurred in February 2023, has sent ripples of grief and outrage throughout the community.
The harrowing case began when the Emir, Justice Sani Sulaiman, reported the abduction of his family members. The incident quickly escalated into a horrific crime that left the Emirate and its residents devastated. The victims included two wives and five children of the Emir, whose lives were tragically cut short. This brazen act of violence not only highlighted the dangers faced by prominent figures in society but also raised serious concerns about the security situation in the region.
Yahaya’s arrest was triggered by the police detaining a suspected kidnapper in Abuja. During the interrogation, the suspect implicated Yahaya, alleging that he supplied AK-47 rifles to the kidnappers involved in the Emir’s family abduction. Following this revelation, law enforcement officials acted swiftly, leading to Yahaya’s apprehension. He is currently being held at the Area Command in Jalingo, the state capital.
A video circulating on social media shows Yahaya making a voluntary confession regarding his role in the crime. In this video, he describes how he collaborated with the kidnappers, claiming that Gambo Jimeta, another resident of Mutum Biyu, facilitated the arrival of two kidnappers. He further alleged that Jimeta provided him with two AK-47 rifles, which were subsequently used for various criminal activities, including the heinous kidnapping that targeted the Emir’s family.
Yahaya admitted that he had been employed in the Emir’s palace for many years before being dismissed, suggesting that his inside knowledge of the palace’s operations may have contributed to the planning and execution of the kidnapping. His confession revealed a chilling connection between someone once trusted in the Emirate and the violent criminal network that led to this tragedy.
Kwache Gambo, the spokesperson for the Taraba State Police, confirmed the ongoing investigation into the case. He assured the public that more details would be released soon. The police are likely to examine Yahaya’s connections within the community and investigate how someone with his background could become involved in such violent criminal activities.
The implications of this case are profound for the community of Mutum Biyu and the wider Taraba State. The murder of the Emir’s family members is not just a loss for the Emir; it is a tragedy that has shaken the entire region. Residents are expressing their anger and fear over the increasing violence and the perceived inability of authorities to protect them.
The community is calling for swift justice and a thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible for these horrific crimes are held accountable. There are growing concerns about the safety of high-profile individuals and their families, as well as the general public, in the face of rising criminal activities.
Moreover, this tragic incident has sparked discussions about the need for improved security measures and community engagement to combat the growing influence of crime in Taraba State. Many residents are advocating for stronger policing and better resources to prevent future tragedies.
As this case unfolds, the involvement of a former palace official in such heinous acts serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of crime and betrayal within communities. The tragic events surrounding the Emir’s family highlight the urgent need for vigilance and collective action to protect families and ensure justice is served. The people of Taraba State, now more than ever, are calling for safety, accountability, and a commitment to preventing such atrocities from happening again.
