THREE ZAMFARA CLERICS KIDNAPPED EN ROUTE TO A PRAYER SESSION FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU RESCUED BY SECURITY FORCES

Three Islamic clerics kidnapped while travelling to a prayer gathering for President Bola Tinubu in Zamfara State have been rescued, according to a security official involved in the operation.

The rescue involved the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.

The clerics were among six imams abducted on September 12, 2026, along the Dakko–Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area.

They were reportedly heading to Talata Mafara for prayers seeking divine guidance for Tinubu’s administration when armed men intercepted them at about 11:30am.

The kidnappers subsequently demanded ₦30 million for their release, according to the report.

A senior security operative said three of the clerics were rescued unharmed through intelligence-led operations. The report did not state whether any ransom was paid.

The rescued men underwent medical examinations and security debriefings and were said to be in stable condition.

They are expected to be handed over to the Zamfara State Government before reuniting with their families.

The report did not provide an update on the other three imams abducted during the incident.