Security agencies rescue three clerics abducted in Zamfara

Three of the six Islamic clerics abducted by bandits in Zamfara State have regained their freedom after seven weeks in captivity. The clerics were kidnapped on September 12, 2026, while traveling to Talata Mafara for a special prayer session for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Their rescue was facilitated by a joint operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force. A senior security operative confirmed that the clerics were rescued unhurt through intelligence-led operations and have since undergone medical examinations and debriefing.

They are in stable condition and arrangements are being made for their reunion with their families. The remaining three clerics are still being held by the abductors, who demanded a ransom of N30 million.

The Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, praised the collaboration among the security agencies, emphasizing the importance of intelligence-sharing in combating kidnapping and banditry in the region.