BREAKING: Taraba Traditional Ruler Shot Dead At Palace
Alhaji Abdulmutalib Jankada, the traditional ruler of Sansani chiefdom in Taraba state, was tragically killed in an attack at his palace. The incident occurred when gunmen, arriving on motorcycles, infiltrated the palace and targeted the monarch. Witnesses recounted that the assailants entered the palace discreetly, located the room where the ruler was present, and opened fire, fatally injuring him. After the attack, they also confiscated his phones before fleeing the scene unnoticed by the palace guards and family members.
The sudden and violent nature of the attack caught the residents of Sansani town off guard. While they heard gunshots, they were unaware that the shooting was happening within the palace premises. Musa Sansani, a resident, mentioned that the late chief had informed them of his plans to travel to Ibbi for the Nwonyo fishing Festival, scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Consequently, when the gunfire erupted, they did not suspect that the palace was under attack. It was only later, when the monarch’s wife discovered his lifeless body in his room, that the true extent of the tragedy became apparent, prompting an outpouring of grief from the community.
The gunmen executed the attack swiftly and silently, disappearing from the town immediately after accomplishing their sinister mission. The shock and devastation caused by the monarch’s untimely death reverberated throughout Sansani town and beyond. Plans were made for his burial following Friday prayers, as the community mourned the loss of their revered leader.
This isn’t the first time tragedy has struck Alhaji Abdulmutalib Jankada. Two years ago, he was abducted along the Jalingo-Wukari road and held captive until a ransom was paid for his release. His death adds to the growing list of traditional rulers who have fallen victim to violence in Taraba state, with approximately seven such incidents occurring in recent years.
The Taraba Commissioner of Police, David lloyanomon, declined to comment on the incident when contacted, referring the inquiry to the command’s public relations officer, SP Usman Abdullahi. However, Abdullahi was unable to provide a statement as he was reportedly unwell at the time.
The tragic killing of Alhaji Abdulmutalib Jankada underscores the persistent threat of violence faced by traditional rulers in Taraba state. It highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect these community leaders and ensure the safety and stability of the region. The loss of such a respected figure leaves a void in the community, and efforts must be made to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further bloodshed.
