Former Kebbi APC Chairman Dies in Bandits’ Custody, Deepening Security Concerns
Tragedy has befallen Kebbi State following the death of Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse, the immediate past chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko/Besse Local Government Area, while being held captive by bandits.
Besse, who was abducted earlier this month, reportedly died before he could regain his freedom, further highlighting the persistent security challenges confronting communities across northern Nigeria.
The development was made public on Tuesday by security and conflict journalist Bakatsine, who disclosed the news in a post on X. According to him, the former APC chieftain died while still in the custody of his abductors.
The incident comes weeks after a disturbing video surfaced online showing Besse and another kidnapped victim being subjected to humiliation by armed bandits in the Birnin Gwari forest, a notorious stronghold for criminal gangs operating in parts of the North-West.
Confirming the development, Bakatsine stated that both victims seen in the viral footage have now died without reuniting with their families.
“Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse, the immediate former APC Chairman of Koko/Besse LGA in Kebbi State, has now also been confirmed dead in captivity,” he wrote.
He described the incident as a heartbreaking outcome to a disturbing ordeal that initially drew widespread attention after the emergence of the viral video.
The death of the former APC chairman has reignited concerns over the escalating threat of banditry, kidnapping and violent attacks across northern Nigeria, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb criminal activities in the region.
Family members, political associates and residents of Kebbi State have since been thrown into mourning following the confirmation of Besse’s death.
The incident has also prompted renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect citizens and tackle the growing menace of banditry and abduction across affected communities.
Sympathisers have continued to offer prayers and condolences to the bereaved family, asking God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear the loss.