Three Zamfara clerics kidnapped en route to a prayer session for President Tinubu rescued by security forces

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, have rescued three Islamic clerics kidnapped while travelling to attend a special prayer session for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Zamfara State.

The victims were among six Imams abducted on September 12, 2026, when heavily armed bandits intercepted them at about 11:30 a.m. along the Dakko-Damri feeder road, near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area, about three kilometres from Damri village, at Gidan Suleiman Bature.

The clerics were reportedly travelling to Talata Mafara for a special prayer gathering seeking divine guidance and favour for President Tinubu’s administration and political future.

Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of 30 million naira for their release.

A senior security operative involved in the operation confirmed in Gusau that three of the clerics were rescued unharmed following a series of intelligence-led operations.

The rescued clerics subsequently underwent medical examinations and security debriefings. They are said to be in stable condition and are expected to be formally handed over to the Zamfara State Government for reunification with their families.