Gunmen have abducted a prominent Muslim cleric, Sheikh Muhammad Lawal Madoki, along with his wife, her sister and the wife of his younger brother.

A BBC report said they were kidnapped today while travelling on the main road linking the Nigerian capital, Abuja, to the main northern city, Kano.

The report quoted the police as confirming the development.

It is not yet clear if the kidnappers have contacted Sheikh Madoki’s family to make any request.

Sheikh Madoki is the head of the Sokoto State Government’s charity and endowment commission.

•Photo shows gunmen.

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