The Nigerian Army has confirmed the abduction of six Islamic scholars in Zamfara State, while dismissing reports that the clerics were kidnapped at the residence of former state governor, Abdul’aziz Yari.
The Army said the victims were abducted while travelling from the Sububu forest area in Bakura Local Government Area towards Talata Mafara.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.
According to the Army, reports linking the incident to Yari’s residence were inaccurate.
It stated, “We wish to categorically refute the claim and set the record straight that no cleric was abducted at Senator Yari’s residence.”
The Army explained that intelligence available to security agencies indicated that the victims were abducted while travelling through the Sububu forest axis.
“Intelligence reports confirm that some persons were abducted while travelling from Sububu forest axis within Bakura Local Government Area en route to Talata Mafara,” the statement added.
The incident was also confirmed by the Zamfara State Police Command, which said six Juma’at Imams were taken by suspected bandits.
The police spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said security personnel had commenced efforts to secure their release.
“Yes, the incident occurred, but the number of the Imams abducted was six and our men have intensified a rescue mission to ensure their safe return,” he said.
The clerics were reportedly travelling to Talata Mafara to attend a special prayer session organised for peace and the success of President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid when they were abducted.
The Army said troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and local intelligence networks, had intensified operations to locate and rescue the victims.
It urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, while providing security agencies with useful information that could assist the rescue effort.
The military also advised the public to disregard sensational reports and unverified claims that could create panic or interfere with ongoing security operations.
