Gunmen kill Imam 'who spoke out against insecurity' in Kaduna - NenyKo

Danleeman Isah, Chief Imam of Kawaran Rafi in the Igabi local government region of Kaduna state, was killed by gunmen.

When the attackers entered the village, the cleric was shot dead.

Samuel Aruwan, the state commissioner for internal security and home affairs, said Saturday’s assertion that the murder of the cleric is related to his stand against state gangsters.

“Security agencies have informed the Kaduna state government that armed bandits invaded Kawaran Rafi village village in Igabi local government area, and killed one Danleeman Isah, the chief immam of the village,” he said.

“The bandits moved straight to Isah’s residence, and in what appears to be a pre-meditated murder, shot him dead and left the location without taking any items or hostages.

“The murder of the cleric has been linked to his vocal stance against the killing and kidnapping of citizenry by bandit.

“It is of a similar ilk to the killing of Ardo Musa Layi of Kajuru local government, who was kidnapped and killed by armed bandits in October 2020 for his advocacy against killing, kidnapping and cattle rustling.

“Also similar was the shooting of Ardo Ahmadu Suleiman by bandits at Kasuwan Magani, Kajuru local government, leaving him with bullet wounds.”

Aruwan said the security forces have confirmed the murder of Yohanna Abu, Sarkin Yaki of Godogodo, by a group of kidnappers.

He said the gunmen assaulted Nisama village in Jema’a local government on Friday night and abducted Abu along with Charles Audu, another resident.

“A struggle ensued between the duo and the kidnappers, and while Mr Audu was able to escape, the kidnappers shot Mr Abu dead,” he said.

The Commissioner said five people have been detained in connection with the killings and the security forces are investigating the incidents.

He added that Nasir el-Rufai, governor of the state, expressed sorrow at both events and prayed for the rest of the souls of the murdered cleric and community chief.