Abducted Zamfara girls regain freedom — after seven months in captivity

Four girls abducted by suspected terrorists in Zamfara have regained freedom after spending seven months in captivity.

In a statement on Thursday, Sulaiman Idris,  spokesperson to governor Dauda Lawal, said the terrorists kidnapped the girls along the Kaura Namoda, Birnin Magaji road in January.

Idris said the terrorists had earlier released a two-minute video showing the girls pleading with the government to intervene and rescue them from their abductors.

He said since the video was released, the government has been concerned and acted promptly to ensure the release of the girls.

“As the chief executive of Zamfara state, I want to express my utmost gratitude to Allah for the freedom of these ladies who were kidnapped seven months ago. It is indeed a moment of happiness for the government and the families of the victims,” Idris quoted the governor as saying.

“I am calling on the victims to consider what happened as a test from the Almighty Allah. Let it not in any way affect their lives, for they have a better future ahead.

“Zamfara state government will do all it takes to ensure that the rescued victims receive the necessary medical attention and provide all their needs.

“My government is determined to do whatever it takes to bring an end to the menace of kidnapping and banditry in our dear state. It is a collective responsibility; we must cooperate and always provide security with relevant information.”

The spokesperson added that the governor assured that the girls would be fully incorporated into society.

According to the statement, Nuhu Umar, director of the Department of State Service (DSS) in the state, handed over the girls to the governor to be reunited with their families.

“On the 15th of January, 2023 four ladies were kidnapped by the bandits. The kidnapped victims regained freedom through government intervention,” Umar said.

“The victims are Jamila Yahaya Isa; Aisha Yahaya Isa; Ummulkhairi Musa and Ummulkhairi Sani Umar. I am officially handing them over to the governor of Zamfara state.”