Five Juma’at imams were kidnapped by bandits in Zamfara State on September 13 while en route to Talata Mafara for a prayer session. The clerics, who are from various local government areas, were abducted near Gidan Suleiman Bature, around three kilometres from Damri village. The prayer session, organised by Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, former governor of Zamfara State, attracted over 2,000 imams in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.
The kidnapped imams are Malam Shehu, Imam of Dakko Juma’at Mosque; Liman Yahuza, Imam of Dogon Madacci and his deputy; Liman Bala, Imam of Fagon; and Na’ibi Tasi’u, Imam of Tungar Nagodai. The first four are from Bakura Local Government Area, while Na’ibi Tasi’u is from Anka LGA. Their families are growing increasingly anxious as the Zamfara State Police launch a rescue operation. A son of one of the imams disclosed that they are racing against a deadline set by the kidnappers and feel traumatised by the uncertainty.
The families of the victims are seeking alternative ways to secure the clerics’ release, citing a lack of adequate response from authorities. There are unsettling comments circulating about the clerics’ abduction being linked to their prayer for Tinubu’s campaign. Despite the crisis, religious activities in the affected mosques have continued, with deputies stepping in to manage their affairs. This has provided some solace to the communities.
According to a relative, the bandits have relocated the clerics and demanded a ransom of 30 million naira, down from an initial 100 million naira. Negotiations became tense when a representative offered just 15 million naira, leading to threats from the bandits. The situation remains delicate as the families and authorities navigate the complexities of the negotiations.
In a separate incident, one person died during a bandit attack at a livestock market in Tsafe, Zamfara. The attackers opened fire, causing chaos at the market before security forces intervened. This incident marks the second attack on the market in two months, raising fears among local traders and farmers. The market has been a vital source of livelihood for many in the area.
Following these events, the Zamfara State Police Command has reinforced security in Tsafe, which has seen an uptick in bandit activities, impacting local livelihoods. The police are working to prevent further attacks and ensure the safe release of the kidnapped imams. The communities remain hopeful for a positive outcome.
Key points
- The kidnapped imams were on their way to a prayer session supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign when they were abducted.
- The bandits have demanded a ransom of 30 million naira for the release of the imams.
- The Zamfara State Police have launched a rescue operation and reinforced security in Tsafe to prevent further bandit attacks.
