The Nigerian military has successfully rescued over 100 kidnapped victims in Katsina State—not through combat, but via community-based dialogue and strategic engagement.
This was disclosed by Major General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding and Commander of Sector Operation Hadarin Daji (Fansan Yamma), during an interactive session with defence correspondents in Sokoto.
According to Major General Ajose, the rescue was made possible through intensive dialogue with Fulani and Hausa communities, who played a key role in securing the unconditional release of the captives.
“We engaged the Fulani and Hausa communities directly. They trusted us and helped facilitate the release of over 100 kidnapped persons—without firing a single shot.” Ajose said
The Army commander also revealed that some bandits and terrorists are now expressing willingness to lay down their arms and surrender to security forces—a development seen as a breakthrough in the non-kinetic approach to tackling insecurity.
Meanwhile, in Sokoto and Kebbi States, troops have intensified operations against the Lakurawa terror group, dismantling several camps and disrupting their movement along the Nigeria–Niger border.
“We have destroyed their camps. We are also working closely with our Nigerien counterparts to deny them any safe haven.”
In a significant security development, the military also intercepted and shot down a surveillance drone allegedly used by bandits—sending what the GOC described as a strong warning to terror elements attempting to adopt advanced tactics.
Responding to concerns about allegations of internal sabotage, Major General Ajose reaffirmed the military’s zero tolerance for compromise, stating that any personnel caught aiding terrorists will face life imprisonment or worse.
“Any soldier caught aiding bandits will face life imprisonment—or worse. We won’t condone sabotage from within.”
The senior officer concluded by urging journalists to support the military’s efforts with fact-based reporting that informs the public and strengthens national unity.
