Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation to secure the release of the Executive Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, following his abduction by armed terrorists.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Joint Task Force (North West), the terrorists attacked the chairman’s residence in the early hours of July 25, 2026, overpowering his police and vigilante security personnel before abducting him and several members of his family.
The statement said troops responded immediately after hearing gunfire and swiftly pursued the fleeing attackers, leading to a fierce gun battle.
The military’s prompt intervention forced the terrorists to abandon five members of the chairman’s family, including his wife, mother, two children and another relative, all of whom were rescued safely. However, the attackers escaped into nearby bushes with the council chairman.
The attack claimed the lives of two police officers and a local vigilante who were part of the chairman’s security detail and reportedly fought gallantly against the assailants. A civilian was also killed, while the chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, sustained injuries during the incident.
Following the attack, the Theatre Command activated a joint rescue mission involving troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes. Security personnel are currently conducting targeted operations in areas believed to be the terrorists’ hideouts in a bid to rescue the abducted chairman safely.
The command said it has deployed all available resources and is working closely with other security agencies to ensure the success of the operation.
It assured the Zamfara State Government and residents that every lawful operational measure is being taken to secure the chairman’s release and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
The military also urged members of the public to remain calm, go about their lawful activities and provide credible information through established security channels to support the ongoing rescue efforts.
