The National President of the Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Mohammadu Abdullahi known as Baba Gombi and Sarkin Bakan Gombi dead at age of 100.
The late Abdullahi, a revered traditional hunter and grassroots security figure, died leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, service and community protection.
Born in 1926 in Beneshak Local Government Area of Borno State, he later relocated to Gombi in present-day Adamawa State in 1979 during the defunct Gongola State era.
There, he rose to prominence as a key figure in local security architecture, mobilising hunters to defend communities against crime and insurgency.
He is survived by four wives, 36 children, 56 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.
Reacting to his death, the Chairman of the Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria, Gombe State chapter, Rabi’u Baushe, described the loss as monumental, not only to his family but to the entire country.
“Baba Gombi dedicated his life to protecting communities, especially in the North-east. His role in tackling insecurity, including Boko Haram, kidnapping and other threats, remains invaluable,” Baushe said.
Baba Gombi was the first Sarkin Baka of Gombi and, in 1987, was turbaned as Sarkin Yakin Bindigan Arewa by the late Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Aliyu Mustapha, in recognition of his bravery and leadership.
His national profile grew in 2018 when he was inaugurated as the National President of the Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria.
In that capacity, he strengthened collaboration between local hunters and formal security agencies, enhancing intelligence gathering and joint operations.
His leadership was particularly notable during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency in 2015, when hunters under his command played a crucial role in reclaiming Gombi town and surrounding communities.
Their knowledge of local terrain proved decisive in tracking insurgents and restoring stability.
The hunters also recorded successes in rescuing kidnapped victims, freeing hundreds across Gombi and parts of Adamawa State through coordinated efforts with security agencies.
Widely respected for his humility and sense of duty, Baba Gombi received several commendations from governments and security organisations for his contributions to the fight against insurgency, banditry and armed robbery.
Community members remember him as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice, whose lifelong commitment to grassroots security will remain a reference point for community-driven efforts in Nigeria.
