Unknown gunmen have kidnapped the Emir of Bukuyum, Mohammed Usman, from his palace in Zamfara State, North-West Nigeria.

The commissioner for information in the state, Ibrahim Magaji, confirmed the Emir’s abduction on Saturday.

Mr. Magaji said the incident took place on Friday.

A spokesman of the State Police Command, Sunusi Amiru, also told Channels Television that the police’s rescue team was currently working to locate his whereabouts.

“On Friday, at about 7:30pm some yet to be identified gunmen in a Hunda Civic car drove into the palace of the Emir of Bukuyum, Mohammed Usman and took him away to an unknown destination,” Amiru said.

“We have commenced investigations and efforts are being put in place to rescue the Emir from his captors,” he added.

No group has claimed responsibility for his abduction and no demand has been made.

•Photo shows Emir of Bukuyum, Mohammed Usman.