Zamfara LG Chairman, Four Others Escape Terrorists’ Captivity As Army Confirms Freedom

The Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nura Umar Abdullahi, has regained his freedom after escaping from the captivity of terrorists who had held him since July 2026.

Abdullahi escaped alongside four other kidnap victims in the early hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, and was subsequently received and secured by troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the JTF Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.

Danja explained that the victims escaped during an intelligence-led military operation targeting a suspected terrorist location in the area. Troops deployed nearby subsequently received the escapees, provided them with security and evacuated them to a military medical facility.

The victims are currently receiving medical attention and undergoing evaluation and routine debriefing as part of the military’s procedures following their escape.

Danja disclosed that one of the victims has already been reunited with their family, while arrangements are being made to safely reunite the remaining victims with their relatives and the Zamfara State Government.

The Theatre Command commended the victims for their courage and determination in securing their freedom after spending an extended period in captivity. It also praised the troops for their vigilance and professionalism in receiving and securing the escapees.

The Army further assured residents that Operation FANSAN YAMMA would continue its clearance and dominance operations across Zamfara State in an effort to disrupt terrorist activities and protect communities.

The military also appealed to members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the nearest security agencies to support ongoing operations and efforts to locate other people who may still be missing or held in captivity.