Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has expressed profound grief over the death of Abba Anas Adamu, a former member of the House of Representatives, describing his demise as a great loss to both Jigawa and Nigeria at large.
Former Lawmaker Killed Despite Ransom Payment
The former federal lawmaker was reportedly abducted and brutally murdered by kidnappers, who dumped his body in an open space after receiving a ransom payment from his family. Governor Namadi conveyed his sorrow after attending the funeral prayer for the late politician in Kano on Tuesday, May 12, where he joined family members, friends, political associates, and sympathizers in praying for the deceased.
The governor described Adamu as a committed public servant who dedicated most of his life to serving his people and humanity. Adamu was traveling to Abuja for a political engagement alongside his associate, Ali Tukur Gantsa, when gunmen intercepted them.
Ransom Negotiations and Health Deterioration
Sabo Nakudu, a former senator and All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart in Jigawa State, confirmed the incident in a Facebook statement. Sources revealed that the abductors initially demanded ₦200 million for the release of the victims, but the amount was later negotiated down to ₦50 million before payment was made.
Family sources disclosed that Adamu, who suffered from asthma and hypertension, was denied access to his medication during captivity, leading to a deterioration in his health. An insider revealed that the ransom was delivered to the kidnappers by Adamu’s son and driver.
Associate Freed, Body Returned for Burial
After the ransom payment, Gantsa was released by the abductors, who allegedly showed him Adamu’s body before handing over his remains to the family. The body has since been returned to his relatives for burial.
The incident has once again raised concerns over persistent insecurity and repeated kidnappings along the Abuja-Kaduna highway, one of Nigeria’s most dangerous road corridors. The tragic event highlights the ongoing security challenges facing the nation.
