Abducted Emir In Northern Nigeria Freed

Emir Alhaji Hassan Attahiru from Bungudu in the Zamfara State of northwest Nigeria, was freed Saturday after spending one month in captivity.

Special Adviser to Governor Bello Matawalle on Strategy, Gazali Shehu Ahmad, confirmed the release of the monarch.

A source who spoke under the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, confirmed to Anadolu Agency that about 20 million naira ($47,000) was paid to secure the Emir's release.

"On behalf of the family and the Bungudu Emirate, we wish to thank everyone for the prayers and support during this trying time," said Ahmad.

"We appreciate all the efforts of the Kaduna State Government throughout this challenging period. Our immense gratitude to the Zamfara State Government in playing a key role to see our father returned home safely," he said. "We salute the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) for their support in facilitating the release of the Emir.

Ahmad asked for Nigerians to "respect the privacy of the Emir in the coming weeks as he receives medical attention and post-trauma management." -