Security forces have rescued five family members of the abducted Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area in Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, as a joint operation intensifies to secure his safe release from suspected terrorists.
The Joint Task Force (North West), Operation Fansan Yamma, disclosed that the council chairman was kidnapped during an attack on his residence in the early hours of July 25, 2026.
According to the military, the armed attackers overpowered police officers and local vigilantes guarding the residence before abducting the chairman along with several members of his family.
However, troops responded immediately after hearing gunshots and engaged the fleeing terrorists in a fierce gun battle.
The military said the swift intervention forced the attackers to abandon five members of the chairman’s family, including his wife, mother, two children and another relative, who were all rescued unharmed.
“The swift response forced the attackers to abandon five members of the chairman’s family, including his wife, mother, two children and another relative, all of whom were rescued unharmed,” the statement said.
Despite the rescue, the terrorists reportedly escaped into nearby bushes with the council chairman.
The attack also claimed the lives of two police officers, a local vigilante and a civilian, while the chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, sustained injuries during the incident.
Following the abduction, the Theatre Command activated a coordinated rescue operation involving Operation Fansan Yamma, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante groups.
Security forces are currently carrying out targeted operations in areas believed to be terrorist hideouts in a bid to rescue the abducted chairman.
The military said all available operational resources have been deployed and that security agencies are working together to ensure the chairman’s safe return.
The command also reassured the Zamfara State Government and residents that every lawful measure is being taken to rescue the council chairman and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
It further urged members of the public to remain calm and continue providing credible information through appropriate security channels to support the ongoing operation.
