On the gruesome murder of Sadiq Suleiman

The sad news of the kidnap and brutal murder of Sadiq Suleiman, a 16-year-old son of Dr. Suleiman reverberated in the ancient city of Bauchi about two weeks ago like a whirl storm.  We were completely taken by surprise and shock that the criminals who masterminded the kidnapping and gruesome murder of a neighbour and […]

The sad news of the kidnap and brutal murder of Sadiq Suleiman, a 16-year-old son of Dr. Suleiman reverberated in the ancient city of Bauchi about two weeks ago like a whirl storm.  We were completely taken by surprise and shock that the criminals who masterminded the kidnapping and gruesome murder of a neighbour and friend after demanding and collecting a hefty ransom from his parents were all youngsters most of them allegedly under 20 years of age. This could be the first time in the history of the state that such dastardly act perpetrated by very young people had taken place.

The National Orientation Agency and concerned organisations must in the circumstance complement the efforts of traditional rulers, school administrators, government officials, journalists and security agencies in changing the false values placed on acquisition of and flaunting of wealth, mostly questionable, in the country.  The  negative influence of friends and associates may not be ruled out.    I must commend the Bauchi State Police Command for their usual  quick response to distress calls and fishing out the culprits few hours after incidents of such grievous nature were reported.  We urge the immediate prosecution and conviction of the suspects already in custody and their accessories to serve as deterrence to others.   The humble father of the deceased, Dr. Suleiman, a foremost medical practitioner in Bauchi, his family and the entire people of Bauchi state should bear this irreparable loss with patience and fortitude.

Abubakar Usman, a retired Permanent Secretary wrote from Bauchi. ([email protected])