Police confirm death of abducted Islamic cleric in Kebbi, held by bandits.

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that Islamic cleric Alhaji Muhammad Maibarga, who was abducted by bandits in Koko‑Besse Local Government Area, has died while in captivity.

Police Public Relations Officer SP Bashir Usman said the command was aware of reports indicating that the cleric had deteriorated and possibly died under the care of his abductors.

“We are aware of reports concerning the victim’s deteriorating condition and possible death in captivity,” he stated.

Usman added that authorities were working to verify the information and to secure the release of other kidnapped individuals in Koko‑Besse and Wasagu local government areas.

The kidnapping was not publicly announced at the time it occurred, but police later confirmed it after journalists inquired.

Earlier, DAILY POST reported that Maibarga had been taken along with a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko‑Besse.

A video that appeared online showed the two elderly men pleading for help while describing their worsening health conditions.

In the footage, the former APC chairman said both men were ill and had been forced to walk long distances through forests despite their age and medical conditions.

The video sparked widespread concern among residents and on social media, with the captives urging their families, community leaders and government authorities to intensify efforts to secure their release.

According to reports, Maibarga later succumbed to his illness while in captivity.

Residents of his community have since observed Salatul Gha’ib (funeral prayer in absentia) for the late cleric, as his body has not been recovered.