By Mahmoud
A family in Niger State was left devastated on Thursday after hearing the news that armed bandits killed their own, an Abuja-based businessman Muhammad Shuaibu and his 19-year-old daughter, Fatima Shuaibu, despite receiving a ₦12 million ransom.
Fatima, a University of Abuja student, was reportedly killed three months ago while still in captivity. A family source said the kidnappers described her as “stubborn” even as ransom negotiations were ongoing.
The ordeal began on 3 October 2025, when armed men stormed the family home in Zhidu community, Tafa Local Government Area, and abducted Shuaibu and his two daughters.
Over the following months, the kidnappers demanded ransom in stages ₦6 million, ₦4 million, and finally ₦2 million.
Despite meeting all demands, the family was later informed that Shuaibu had died from serious illness in captivity, while Fatima had already been killed.
To raise the ransom, the family reportedly sold nearly all their assets, including Shuaibu’s shop at Dei-Dei Modern Market, his car, and a sachet water business.
The kidnappers also insisted on selling the family home, but no buyer was found.
This tragic incident highlights the escalating insecurity in Nigeria and the devastating toll of kidnappings on families, leaving them powerless against relentless violence
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