3 Kidnapped Imams Rescued After 49 Days in Bandits’ Captivity
By Prosper Okoye
Security operatives have rescued three Islamic clerics abducted by armed bandits in Zamfara State while travelling to attend a prayer gathering for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election, bringing relief to their families after weeks of uncertainty.
The clerics were among six Imams kidnapped on September 12, 2026, when gunmen intercepted them along the Dakko-Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area of the state.
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force collaborated in the intelligence-led operation that secured their release.
The Imams were reportedly travelling to Talata Mafara to participate in a prayer gathering seeking divine favour for Tinubu’s administration and political future when they were seized by the gunmen.
Their abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦30 million for their release.
A senior security operative involved in the operation confirmed in Gusau that the three clerics were rescued unharmed.
Following their rescue, the Imams received medical attention and were debriefed by security personnel.
They are expected to be handed over to the Zamfara State Government for reunification with their families.
The rescue has brought hope to the families of the abducted clerics, although three others remain in captivity.
Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, also confirmed the rescue, commending the cooperation among the security agencies involved in the operation.
Security officials said efforts were ongoing to locate and rescue the remaining three clerics and apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
They urged residents to provide security agencies with credible information that could assist ongoing operations to tackle banditry in the state.
