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Suspected kidnappers have reportedly released the body of former Jigawa State federal lawmaker, Abba Anas Adamu, after collecting ₦50 million ransom from his family.
Adamu, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and his political associate, Ali Tukur Gantsa, were abducted weeks ago along the Abuja–Kaduna Highway while travelling for a political engagement.
A family source, who requested anonymity, said the abductors initially demanded ₦100 million for their release before negotiations led to a reduced payment of ₦50 million.
According to the source, despite assurances that Adamu would be freed, the kidnappers later abandoned his lifeless body on the outskirts of a community, while Gantsa was reportedly released and is now safe.
The incident has thrown the ADC family in Jigawa State into mourning, with party members and political associates describing Adamu as a calm, kind-hearted politician and a man widely respected for his integrity and service.
It was gathered that the victims were travelling from Kano to Abuja for a political meeting when they were intercepted and taken to a forested area in Jere, where the kidnappers continued ransom negotiations.
Sources further revealed that Adamu, who reportedly suffered from asthma and hypertension, was without medication during captivity, which worsened his condition. Despite efforts by Gantsa to support him, his health deteriorated.
The abductors allegedly withheld confirmation of his death until later, when they indicated that he had died while in captivity.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from the Jigawa State ADC leadership, while arrangements are reportedly being made to move the body to Kano for burial.
