Security forces have intensified efforts to rescue the Zamfara LG chairman, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, after suspected terrorists abducted him during an overnight attack on his residence in Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The Joint Task Force (North West), operating under Operation Fansan Yamma, confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday that the attack occurred in the early hours of July 25, 2026. According to the military, the gunmen overpowered police officers and local vigilantes stationed at the residence before taking the council chairman and several members of his family hostage.
Troops reportedly responded immediately after hearing gunfire and pursued the fleeing attackers, leading to a fierce exchange of fire.
The military said the pressure mounted by the security team forced the kidnappers to abandon five members of the chairman’s family. Those rescued include his wife, mother, two children and another relative, all of whom were recovered safely without injuries. Despite the successful rescue, the attackers managed to escape into nearby bushes with the Zamfara LG chairman, prompting an expanded search operation across suspected terrorist hideouts.
The assault claimed the lives of two police officers, a local vigilante operative and a civilian, all of whom were said to have resisted the attackers during the incident. The chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, also sustained injuries during the attack and is receiving medical attention.
In response, the Theatre Command activated a coordinated rescue mission involving personnel from Operation Fansan Yamma, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante groups.
Security agencies are currently conducting targeted operations in locations believed to be the kidnappers’ hideouts, with the objective of securing the safe release of the abducted council chairman. Military authorities said all available operational resources have been deployed while collaboration among security agencies has been strengthened to improve the chances of a successful rescue.
The command assured the Zamfara State Government and residents that every lawful operational measure is being taken to free the Zamfara LG chairman and ensure those responsible for the attack are arrested and prosecuted. It also appealed to members of the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities and promptly provide credible intelligence through established security channels to assist ongoing rescue operations.
