Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruq Umar Faruq, has removed the Village Head of Mantau, Iliya Mantau, following serious allegations linking him to the kidnapping and rape of a woman in the Yarmaulu community of Baure Local Government Area in Katsina State.
The decision was announced on Monday after widespread public outrage and protests led by youth groups who accused the Emirate Council of initially dragging its feet on the matter.
The incident involves the alleged abduction of a woman named Zulaihatu and her child, with reports claiming that she was raped after a ransom of twenty million naira was paid. The case, which has reportedly been in litigation for close to a year, had generated mounting criticism from residents who demanded immediate action.
While addressing the public, the Emir stated that the Daura Emirate would never protect individuals involved in such heinous acts, regardless of their status or position. He reaffirmed the Emirate’s readiness to receive complaints from the people and pursue justice without bias.
“This Emirate does not and will never condone abuse against citizens,” the Emir said. “Even if the person involved is my own child, the public is free to lodge their complaints, and justice will be served.”
Referencing past decisions, the Emir recalled how former leaders of the Emirate had taken similar stands against misconduct, even within their own families. He said: “This Emirate once removed traditional leaders for wrongdoing, and even Sarki Abdurrahman ordered his own son’s imprisonment. That is the kind of legacy we are committed to upholding.”
The Emir declared the immediate removal of Iliya Mantau from his position and added that a new village head would be appointed shortly. He stressed that the next appointee must be a person of integrity who will uphold justice in the community.
He also urged residents to refrain from spreading unverified reports and instead use official channels to report grievances and demand accountability.
