Freed Zamfara LG chairman and four others return home safely

The kidnapped Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area in Zamfara State, Nura Abdullahi, is free after 61 days in captivity.

This information came from a statement by the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, in Gusau, the state capital, on Thursday.

In July 2026, The PUNCH reported that the command was working hard to rescue the abducted LG chairman.

Abdullahi was taken by armed bandits during an attack on his home in Bungudu town. During the initial shootout that led to his abduction, four members of his security detail, including two police officers and two local vigilante members, were killed.

According to Danja, troops received and secured Abdullahi and four other victims who escaped from the terrorists on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

"Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi was kidnapped from his home in Bungudu town in July 2026, and the Theatre Command had earlier issued a statement about it.

"The victims escaped during an intelligence-led operation by troops targeting a suspected terrorists' hideout in the area, and they were received by troops stationed nearby.

"They received security cover and were taken to a military medical facility, where they are getting treatment and going through evaluation and routine debriefing," he said.

Danja mentioned that one of the victims has already been reunited with his family, and plans are in place for the safe return of the others to their families and the Zamfara State Government.

"The Theatre Command praises the bravery, resilience, and determination of the victims in regaining their freedom after such a long time in captivity.

"It also praises the troops for their alertness and professionalism in securing them," Danja said.

He promised that the troops would continue their operations to clear and dominate the area to disrupt terrorist activities and protect communities. He added that they are dedicated to ensuring the safe return of others who are still missing or held.

"The Theatre Command urges the public to keep providing timely and credible information to the nearest military or security agencies," Danja said.