Princess Zainab J. Ado Bayero, daughter of the late Emir of Kano, HRH Alhaji Ado Bayero, has raised concerns about an alleged hostage situation involving her family in Lagos.
Speaking to Vanguard, the filmmaker and feminist disclosed that her mother and brother, Ahmed Tijjani Ado Bayero, were being held in a Lagos hotel over unresolved issues as of December 8, 2024.
Zainab, a vocal advocate for women’s rights and social justice, revealed that her family struggles intensified after the death of her father. She expressed frustration over what she perceives as a lack of support from her country, adding that the ordeal highlights underlying societal issues, including tribalism and patriarchy.
“For a day, we were held hostage due to a hotel debt because we have no home,” she lamented. “My brother is depressed and miserable. Why won’t anyone care about this? As a Muslim woman from the Kano emirate, I’m being punished for speaking out. My mother isn’t from the North either, and we’re being marginalized.”
She called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, emphasizing her right to protection as a Nigerian citizen. “Is it right that I’m being abused by members of the Kano emirate? Mr. President, it’s your duty to protect the rights of every Nigerian citizen, including me, my mom, and my brother. We are being judged for our mixed heritage and for challenging societal norms. This is nothing short of a Greek tragedy.”
Princess Zainab also appealed to the Governor of Kano State, who is a relative, to mediate and resolve their situation. “I believe in his capacity as the father of the people of Kano. I hope he will give my brother and me an opportunity to explain our plight directly to him.”
Her plea underscores broader challenges tied to heritage, gender, and societal expectations within Nigeria.
