The Katsina State Government has confirmed that Abdulsalam Rabiu-Faskari, the winner of the National Quranic Recitation Competition, along with his father and brother, remains alive but in the custody of their abductors.
This was disclosed in a statement on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu-Zango. The trio was kidnapped two days ago while traveling from Katsina to Faskari after being honored by Governor Dikko Radda for Abdulsalam’s exceptional performance in the competition held in Kebbi.
Salisu-Zango refuted reports claiming the victim had been killed, assuring that government intelligence indicates the abductees are alive and in stable condition. As of Friday, the kidnappers were demanding a N30 million ransom.
Governor Radda condemned the abduction, describing it as unfortunate. He assured the public that security agencies are actively working to secure their safe release, urging them to pray for the victims’ freedom. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity in the state.
