Bungudu chairman, four others escape kidnappers in Zamfara

GUSAU — The Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, and four other kidnap victims have escaped from captivity and been received by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.

The victims escaped in the early hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, in the general area of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area and were subsequently secured by troops deployed in the vicinity.

Abdullahi was abducted from his residence in Bungudu town in July 2026.

In a statement, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the victims escaped during an intelligence-led operation by troops targeting a suspected terrorist location in the area.

Danja said the victims were provided with security cover and evacuated to a military medical facility, where they were receiving treatment, undergoing medical evaluation and routine debriefing.

According to him, one of the victims had already been reunited with his family, while arrangements were being made for the safe reunion of the remaining victims with their families and the Zamfara State Government.

The Theatre Command commended the victims for their courage and resilience in regaining their freedom after spending a prolonged period in captivity.

It also commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism in receiving and securing the victims.

“The return of the victims is a welcome relief to their families and the people of Bungudu Local Government Area, and Zamfara State as a whole,” the statement said.

The command said troops of Operation Fansan Yamma would sustain clearance and dominance operations across the area to disrupt terrorist activities and protect communities.

added that the troops remained committed to securing the safe return of other persons still held captive or missing.

The Theatre Command urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the nearest military or other security agencies.