Katsina Village Head Dethroned By Emir Of Daura Over Kidnapping And Rape Of Nursing Mother

The Emir of Daura in Katsina State, Alhaji Faruq Faruq, has deposed Iliya Mantau, the Village Head of Mantau in Yarmaulu, Baure Local Government Area, over allegations of involvement in the kidnapping and rape of a married woman in the community.

The Emir announced the decision on Monday, May 19, 2025, following complaints from Yarmaulu residents, which sparked a youth-led protest last week.

The demonstrators accused the deposed village head and his accomplices of abducting Zulaihatu, the wife of Alhaji Sidi, along with her three-month-old baby, and allegedly raping her after collecting a N20 million ransom.

The case triggered widespread outrage, particularly due to the Emirate’s delayed action—nearly a year—despite the matter being in court.

While declaring Mantau’s removal, the Emir of Daura reaffirmed that the Emirate has zero tolerance for abuses against ordinary citizens.

He emphasized that the Emirate remains accessible to all individuals seeking justice or wishing to report grievances.

“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 stated.

“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.”

The Emir emphasized that the decision to remove Iliya Mantau as Village Head was taken in the interest of peace, accountability, and good governance. He assured the community that a new representative would be appointed soon—someone who embodies justice, integrity, and commitment to the welfare of the people.

He also cautioned the public against circulating false information, which he described as a threat to communal harmony. Instead, he urged residents to remain law-abiding and to use proper legal channels to express their concerns or complaints.