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The Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nura Umar Abdullahi, has escaped from terrorist captivity after 61 days in captivity.
Abdullahi and four other kidnap victims regained their freedom in the early hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, in the Kaura Namoda area of the state.
The Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, confirmed the development in a statement issued by its Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, in Gusau.
Danja said the victims escaped during an intelligence-led military operation targeting a suspected terrorist location in the area.
According to him, troops deployed nearby received the escapees, provided them with security cover and evacuated them to a military medical facility.
He said the victims were receiving treatment and undergoing medical evaluation and routine debriefing.
Abdullahi was abducted from his residence in Bungudu town on July 25, 2026, during an attack by armed bandits.
Four members of his security detail, comprising two police officers and two local vigilante members, were killed during the gun battle that preceded his abduction.
Danja said one of the rescued victims had already been reunited with family members, while arrangements were being made to reunite the remaining victims with their families and the Zamfara State Government.
He commended the victims for their courage, resilience and determination in escaping after more than two months in captivity.
The Theatre Command also praised the troops for their vigilance and professionalism in securing the victims.
Danja said troops would sustain clearance and dominance operations across the area to disrupt terrorist activities and protect communities.
He added that the military remained committed to securing the safe return of other persons still being held or reported missing.
The Theatre Command urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to the nearest military or other security agencies to support ongoing operations.
