Daura Emir Removes Village Head Over Alleged Kidnapping And Rape Of Married Woman

The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruq Umar, has removed Iliya Mantau from his position as Village Head of Mantau in Yarmaulu Ward, Baure Local Government Area, Katsina State.

The decision follows allegations that Iliya Mantau was involved in the kidnapping and rape of a married woman named Zulaihatu.

The Emir announced on Monday, May 19, 2025, that Mantau was no longer fit to lead and said a new village head would soon be appointed to promote fairness and integrity in the community.

This move came after residents of Yarmaulu raised multiple complaints, which eventually led to a protest by local youths last week.

The protesters accused Mantau of being linked to the abduction of Zulaihatu and her infant.

According to reports, the woman was raped despite a ₦20 million ransom being paid.

The incident drew widespread criticism, with many questioning why it took the emirate nearly a year to act, even though the case had already reached the courts.

In response, the Emir made it clear that the Daura Emirate will not tolerate abuse or injustice.

He urged citizens to report wrongdoings through official channels and assured them that no one is above the law, not even his own family members.

“If anyone feels wronged, even if it is my child who is responsible, people should come forward and present their complaint to the Emirate. This is an Emirate of the people.

“This emirate has previously removed a traditional leader it had appointed, and even Sarki Abdurrahman once ordered the imprisonment of his son over wrongdoing, and that’s why we will never condone the abuse of anyone,” he said.

It was further confirmed that last week’s protest was triggered by allegations from concerned youths who accused the former village head and others of being involved in the crime.

KanyiDaily recalls that Zainab Ado-Bayero, daughter of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, recently cried out for help, revealing that she has been struggling since her father’s death.