By SUNTV Global Channel News Desk
A tragic development has emerged from Kebbi State as one of the two elderly men abducted by terrorists alongside a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko-Besse Local Government Area has reportedly died while in captivity.
The deceased, identified as a close associate and longtime friend of the former APC chairman, was kidnapped alongside the party chieftain and had appeared in a recent viral video pleading for urgent intervention to secure their freedom.
The sad news was disclosed by security analyst and conflict reporter Bakatsine, who confirmed that the victim lost his life while being held by the kidnappers.
The death has intensified concerns over the condition and safety of the surviving captive, the former APC chairman, who had earlier revealed that both men were battling serious health challenges while enduring harsh conditions in the terrorists’ camp.
In an emotional video circulated days before the reported death, the former APC chairman appealed to family members, community leaders, and government authorities not to abandon them.
“You can see the humiliating conditions we are facing here. Please help us regain our freedom. We are suffering and our health is deteriorating,” he pleaded.
The elderly politician expressed frustration over what he described as the slow response to efforts aimed at securing their release.
He disclosed that both he and his late companion were sick and struggling to survive in the forest while being forced to trek long distances with their captors.
According to him, the kidnappers kept them in an environment filled with dangers, including wild reptiles and snakes, further worsening their suffering.
Before his death, the deceased victim, identified as Yahya, had also appealed for urgent rescue, lamenting that both men had been abandoned despite their deteriorating health conditions.
The latest development highlights the growing insecurity facing communities across parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom and terrorist attacks continue to claim lives and disrupt livelihoods.
As families mourn the loss of another victim, concern continues to mount over the fate of the former APC chairman and other captives still being held by armed groups across the region.
At the time of filing this report, authorities in Kebbi State had yet to issue an official statement regarding the death or ongoing efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostage.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures and more decisive action to combat kidnapping and terrorism across affected communities.
SUNTV Global Channel extends its condolences to the bereaved family and will continue to provide updates on the situation as more information becomes available.
