A former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko/Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse, has reportedly died while being held by kidnappers after spending nearly two months in captivity.
Mai Barga Besse was abducted alongside a close associate during an attack by suspected bandits in the Koko/Besse area. Although news of their kidnapping did not initially receive widespread attention, concerns mounted in recent weeks amid reports that both men were battling serious health problems while in captivity.
Prior to his death, a video circulated online showing the former APC chieftain and his fellow captive pleading for help from relatives, political associates, and community leaders. In the footage, the pair appeared visibly frail and exhausted as they recounted the harsh conditions they were enduring in the forest.
The late politician reportedly spoke about his deteriorating health and warned that any delay in securing their freedom could have fatal consequences.
Sources familiar with the incident said he was unable to survive the difficult conditions in the kidnappers’ camp, where victims were allegedly exposed to hunger, illness, and constant movement through remote forest locations. His associate was also said to have developed serious health complications during the ordeal.
News of his death has left family members, political allies, and residents of Koko/Besse in mourning. Many have described him as a respected grassroots politician who made significant contributions to political development in the area.
The tragedy has further intensified concerns over the persistent threat of kidnapping and banditry across parts of northern Nigeria, with renewed calls for stronger security measures to safeguard rural communities.
