Daura Emir Dethrones Village Head For Alleged Kidnapping, Rape

The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruq Umar, has dethroned Iliya Mantau, the Village Head of Mantau, Yarmaulu ward, in the Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State, over his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and rape of a married woman.

The emir announced that Iliya Mantau ceases to be the village head of Mantau, effective from Monday, May 19, 2025, stating that a new representative will soon be appointed to ensure leadership based on justice and integrity.

The decision was announced on Monday following a series of complaints from residents of Yarmaulu, which led to a youth-led protest last week, with protesters accusing the dethroned village head of playing a role in the abduction of a married woman, Zulaihatu, and her infant.

The woman was allegedly raped after a ₦20 million ransom was paid.

The incident also sparked public concern over the emirate’s delay in taking action for almost a year, despite the matter being in court.

However, the Emir of Daura, Umar Faruq Umar, emphasised during the announcement of the village head’s removal that the Daura Emirate would not tolerate any form of abuse against the citizens.

He also said that the emirate remains transparent to all citizens who wish to file complaints or report injustices.

The emir warned the general public against spreading unfounded rumours, encouraging them to continue abiding by the law and channelling their grievances through appropriate legal procedures.

“If anyone feels wronged, even if it is my , people should come forward and present their complaint to the Emirate. This emirate belongs to 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 gathered that some concerned youths in Yarmaulu staged a protest last week, accusing the dethroned village head and several others of kidnapping a married woman, Zulaihatu, and her baby.