The Village Head of Dutsan Gaya in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Maitala Ariga Makama, has been found dead after reportedly being abducted by the local vigilante group known as Yan Sakai.
The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that Makama’s body was discovered on Sunday, February 23, 2025, on the outskirts of Sabon Garin Rimau in the same LGA.
A police source told security analyst Zagazola Makama that armed members of Yan Sakai allegedly stormed Dutsan Gaya in the early hours of the day and abducted the traditional ruler.
“Hours later, his body was found with suspected gunshot wounds,” the source said.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kasuwan Magani led a team of police officers and vigilantes to the scene, where the deceased was taken to a village hospital and confirmed dead by a doctor on duty.
In response, the police have held an emergency meeting with community and youth leaders from Dutsan Gaya and surrounding villages to appeal for calm.
“The situation is being closely monitored, and efforts are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing and to apprehend those responsible,” a senior security officer, speaking anonymously, said.
The body has been taken to Gomna Anwan General Hospital in Kakuri, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.
