By Prosper Okoye
Security operatives have rescued three Islamic clerics kidnapped by armed bandits in Zamfara State while travelling to attend a prayer gathering for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election, security officials said.
The clerics were among six Imams abducted 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 were involved in the operation that secured their release.
The clerics were travelling to Talata Mafara for a prayer gathering seeking divine favour for Tinubu’s administration and political future.
The kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom of 30 million naira for their release.
A senior security operative involved in the operation confirmed in Gusau that the three clerics were rescued unharmed following an intelligence-led operation.
The rescued 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.
Zamfara State Commissioner of Police Ahmad Muhammad Bello also confirmed the rescue, crediting cooperation among the security agencies for the operation.
Security officials said operations were continuing to locate the remaining three clerics still held by the kidnappers and arrest those responsible for the abduction.
They also urged residents to provide security agencies with relevant information that could assist ongoing efforts to tackle banditry in the state.
