Zamfara Girls Regain Freedom After 7 Months In Captivity

In a significant development, four girls who had been abducted by terrorists in Zamfara State in January have been successfully released after spending seven months in captivity.

The girls, namely Jamila Isa, Aisha Isa, Ummulkhairi Musa, and UmmulKhairi Umar, were kidnapped while traveling on the Kaura Namoda – Birnin Magaji road.

The recent release of the girls was confirmed by the Zamfara State government on Thursday. The exact circumstances surrounding their release, including whether a ransom was paid to secure their freedom, have not been disclosed by either the state government or the families of the girls.

It has been reported that the girls were brought to the state capital, Gusau, by the efforts of the State Security Service (SSS). Sulaiman Idris, the spokesperson for the Zamfara governor, released a statement indicating that the girls’ rescue was facilitated through “government intervention.”

This development marks a positive step and highlights the ongoing efforts to address security challenges in the state.

The state government expressed deep concern upon receiving a distressing video depicting captive girls pleading with their families and the government for help.

“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 some seven months ago. It is indeed a moment of happiness for the government and the families of the victims,” remarked Zamfara governor, Dauda Lawal, through his spokesperson.

Governor Lawal urged the victims to view their ordeal as a test from Allah and encouraged them not to let it impact their future. He emphasized that the rescued girls will undergo comprehensive reintegration into society, with their needs diligently provided for.

“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 governor said.

When news men contacted an uncle to one of the victims, who is from Kura in Bungudu area, he said:

“I’ll not say anything. We’re happy that they have been released. What matters to us is that they are here with us. We thank you journalists for your efforts in publicising the predicament of our children.”

Zamfara State is one of the states suffering from severe terrorists activities in the North-west. Several abducted people are still in terrorists’ camps spread all over the state.