The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruq Umar Faruq, has dethroned the Village Head of Mantau, Iliya Mantau, over allegations of involvement in the kidnapping and rape of a woman in the Yarmaulu community, Baure Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The Emir announced the decision on Monday following public outrage and a youth-led protest sparked by mounting complaints from residents.

The incident involved the alleged abduction of a woman, identified as Zulaihatu, and her child, with reports claiming that she was raped after a ransom of N20m was collected.

Sources told The PUNCH that the alleged crime, which had been under litigation for almost a year, drew sharp criticism from residents who accused the Emirate of delaying action despite the seriousness of the case.

Addressing the public, the Emir said the Daura Emirate would not tolerate any form of abuse, especially against ordinary citizens, and emphasised the Emirate’s openness to receiving complaints from the public.

“If anyone feels wronged, even if the perpetrator is my own child, they should come forward and present their case to the Emirate. This is an Emirate of the people,” he said.

Recalling previous instances of accountability, the Emir noted: “This Emirate has in the past removed traditional leaders it appointed. Even Sarki Abdurrahman once ordered the imprisonment of his own son over wrongdoing. That is why we will never condone the abuse of anyone.”

With immediate effect, the Emir declared that Iliya Mantau had been relieved of his duties as Village Head of Mantau.

A new representative, he added, will be appointed soon to ensure that leadership in the community is grounded in justice and integrity.

The Emir also cautioned the public against spreading unverified information and encouraged them to pursue lawful channels to address grievances.