Alhaji Faruq Faruq, the Emir of Daura in Katsina State, has dethroned Iliya Mantau, the Village Head of Mantau in Yarmaulu, Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State, following claims of complicity in the kidnapping and rape of a lady in the community.
After Yarmaulu residents’ objections sparked a youth-led protest last week, the Emir made this announcement on Monday.
According to information obtained by The Punch, the dissident youths charged that Iliya Mantau, the ousted village chief, and others had abducted Zulaihatu and her child and then sexually assaulted her after demanding a N20 million ransom.
The people was outraged by the incident, particularly since the Emirate took no action for nearly a year even though the case was in court.
While announcing the removal, the Emir of Daura reiterated that the Daura Emirate would not tolerate any form of abuse against the common people.
He emphasised that the Emirate remains open to all citizens who wish to file complaints or report injustices.
“If anyone feels wrong, even if it is my own child who is responsible, they 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 own son over wrongdoing. That is why we will never condone the abuse of anyone”, the Emir declared.
Effective from Monday, the Emir announced that Iliya Mantau ceases to be the Village Head of Mantau and a new representative will soon be appointed to ensure leadership based on justice and integrity.
The Emir also warned the public against spreading unfounded rumours and encouraged them to continue abiding by the law and to channel their grievances through appropriate legal avenues.
