From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The former district head and Hakimi of Mai Ido, John Sabo Usman, has resorted to begging for survival, following the purported arrest of his son, Hashimu, by the military over alleged involvement in kidnapping and banditry in Kachia Local Council, Kaduna State.
Usman, who claims his son is the family’s breadwinner, said Hashimu was apprehended two weeks ago near Saint John’s Catholic Church in Kachia while tending to his sick mother.
According to him, since then, the family has reportedly had no contact with him.
Speaking to the media on the matter, the Chief of Kachia, Zamani Dogonyaro, stated that he would allow the military to complete their investigation.
“If the boy is innocent, he will be set free,” Dogonyaro said.
The chief also highlighted insecurity challenges in Kachia and neighboring communities, noting the involvement of local youths in criminal activities.
According to him, when Usman informed him about his son’s arrest, he advised him to let the military handle the case.
“I told him that with my position, I cannot intervene because most of the boys are deeply involved in kidnapping and banditry.
“I later called a meeting with elders in the community, and they said the boy has a questionable character”, he explained.
The chief added that he has urged Usman to approach the military directly for clarification.
He adds: “You see, I must confess, what our boys are doing is not good.
“ Just yesterday, we had a meeting with the military from 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Kachia, Kajuru, and Chikun over insecurity challenges. The military is on top of the situation.”
Meanwhile, Usman maintained his son’s innocence and pleaded for his release, lamenting that the family has struggled to feed since his arrest.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
