In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing war against banditry in the Northwest, eleven abducted individuals from Kaibaba village in Turba ward, Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, have regained their freedom. The victims—comprising seven women, three infants, and a teenage boy—were rescued by security operatives from a forest in Zurmi Local Government Area of neighbouring Zamfara State.
The successful operation, hailed as a major stride in restoring peace and security to the region, culminated in the emotional reunion at the Sokoto State Government House on Wednesday, where Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir received the victims on behalf of the state government.
Commending the security forces for their bravery and precision, Gobir described the rescue as a testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to the safety of its citizens. He reaffirmed that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration places security at the heart of its governance agenda.
“Our administration has never relented in supporting all security initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property. This successful rescue underscores the value of our relentless collaboration with security agencies,” the deputy governor declared.
As a gesture of compassion and solidarity, the state government provided immediate relief to the victims, donating ₦100,000 cash, a bag of millet, and a bag of maize to each of the eleven individuals. The support is aimed at easing their reintegration and recovery from the traumatic ordeal.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Isa Local Government, Alhaji Sherifu Kamarawa, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the state government and security agencies. He praised their swift intervention, describing the gesture as a clear demonstration of a government that genuinely cares for the lives and welfare of its people.
“This act of rescue and relief shows that we are not forgotten. It gives us renewed hope that no one will be left behind in the fight against banditry,” Kamarawa noted.
The rescue operation marks yet another milestone in the concerted efforts by the Sokoto State Government and Nigeria’s security architecture to stamp out criminal activities plaguing rural communities. Authorities have vowed to intensify surveillance and intelligence operations to prevent future abductions and bring perpetrators to justice.
As Sokoto celebrates this victory, the message is clear: the state will not bow to fear—and the government remains resolute in its mission to reclaim peace and restore dignity to every citizen.
PIONEER NEWS 