Following the tragic news of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar’s death while in the hands of her kidnappers, Prof. Isa Pantami, a friend of the family and the former Communications Minister, shared a message on Twitter on Sunday, highlighting the family’s ongoing ordeal and offering updates on the situation.
Pantami confirmed that he spoke with Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, the father of the six abducted daughters, on Saturday and Sunday. This comes after the heartbreaking revelation that Nabeeha, one of the sisters, had not survived the kidnapping. The five remaining sisters remain in captivity, facing further threats from the captors.
Despite his personal opposition to ransom payments, Pantami disclosed that, in light of the father’s desperate plea and the escalating situation, he facilitated contact with a “friend and brother” willing to provide the remaining 50 million Naira (out of the initial 60 million ransom demand) immediately. The account number was shared, allowing the donor to transfer the funds directly to Mr. Al-Kadriyar.
Pantami expressed gratitude to the donor for their generosity and wished for blessings upon all who contributed to the effort, regardless of the amount. He emphasized the psychological toll on the family and stated that any additional funds already raised would be used for the well-being of the remaining daughters and the family in general.
The professor’s Twitter message also conveyed prayers for Nabeeha’s soul, the safe return of her sisters, and divine assistance for security agencies in tackling the escalating issue of kidnappings. He concluded with a heartfelt wish for a safer Nigeria for all its citizens.
His tweet reads, “I am personally not in support of paying ransom to criminals. However, since it becomes clear, we lost our daughter Nabeeha yesterday, and the 5 remaining daughters have been threatened, as I spoke with the father on the matter yesterday and today.
“Furthermore, I spoke with a friend and a brother who offered to pay the remaining 50 million Naira of the 60m immediately. I conveyed the account number of the father of pur daughters, Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, to the friend and brother to send the money directly. Any additional amount earlier generated from yesterday, the father can use to treat the daughters and other family members in sha Allah.
“May the Almighty Allah reward the bother and friend with Jannatul Firdaus for the donation. May He also reward all those who contributed in any way with Jannatul Firdaus, too. May He also forgive Nabeeha and rescue her sisters. May the Almighty also help our security agencies to bring an end to these challenges. May Nigeria be a better place for all of us.”
Alhamdu lil Laah!
I am personally not in support of paying ransom to criminals. However, since it becomes clear, we lost our daughter Nabeeha yesterday, and the 5 remaining daughters have been threatened, as I spoke with the father on the matter yesterday and today.…— Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim, CON (@ProfIsaPantami) January 14, 2024
Pantami’s intervention sheds light on the family’s ongoing struggle and the dire realities faced by victims of kidnapping in Nigeria. His message highlights the emotional and financial burdens placed on families, the ethical dilemmas surrounding ransom payments, and the desperate hope for rescue amid tragedy.
It is important to note that Pantami’s personal views on ransom payments are distinct from his role as a friend and confidante to the Al-Kadriyar family. His actions in this instance seem to reflect a desire to support the family in their darkest hour and facilitate a potential resolution to the crisis.
The situation remains critical, with five young girls still in captivity and their family grappling with loss and fear. While Pantami’s message offers a glimpse into the ongoing negotiations and the family’s plight, the ultimate outcome for the remaining sisters and the broader issue of kidnappings in Nigeria remains uncertain.
