Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, has revealed that a close acquaintance has offered a sum of N50 million for the release of five sisters who were abducted by gunmen in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Tragically, Nigerians are mourning the brutal demise of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a young lady who fell victim to assailants that abducted her along with her five sisters. The abduction occurred on January 9, involving their father, Alhaji Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, who was later released by the gunmen.
On January 12, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N60 million for the release of the remaining daughters, urging Nigerians to contribute to a designated bank account. Regrettably, the collected funds were insufficient by Friday’s deadline.
Subsequently, the criminals allegedly executed the eldest sister, Najeebah, and discarded her body for her parents to inter in accordance with Islamic rites. Prof. Isa Pantami verified Najeebah’s demise on Saturday night, affirming that he had communicated with the father regarding the situation of the remaining kidnapped girls.
Reacting on Sunday, January 14, Pantami on his verified “X” page in a terse statement said: “Alhamdu lil Laah! I am personally not in support of paying ransom to criminals.
“However, since it becomes clear, we lost our daughter Nabeeha yesterday, and the 5 remaining daughters have been threatened, as I spoke with the father on the matter yesterday and today.
“Furthermore, I spoke with a friend and a brother who offered to pay the remaining 50 million Naira of the 60m immediately.
“I conveyed the account number of the father of pur daughters, Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, to the friend and brother to send the money directly. Any additional amount earlier generated from yesterday, the father can use to treat the daughters and other family members in sha Allah.
“May the Almighty Allah reward the bother and friend with Jannatul Firdaus for the donation. May He also reward all those who contributed in any way with Jannatul Firdaus, too.
“May He also forgive Nabeeha and rescue her sisters. May the Almighty also help our security agencies to bring an end to these challenges. May Nigeria be a better place for all of us. I love Nigeria. #Najeebahandhersisters.”
