The gunmen who abducted retired Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga, the former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), have reportedly demanded a ₦250 million ransom for his release.
A reliable source close to the family, speaking under anonymity, confirmed to Daily Trust that the kidnappers had established contact and communicated their demands.
Brigadier General Tsiga was among ten individuals kidnapped in a well-coordinated attack that took place at midnight on Wednesday in Bakori Local Government Area, Katsina State. The armed assailants also killed one resident, ransacked multiple homes, and carted away valuables before fleeing with their hostages.
Eyewitness reports indicate that more than 100 heavily armed attackers stormed the area, surrounded Tsiga’s residence, and forcibly took him away at gunpoint.
Hon. Abdullahi Balarabe Dabai, the lawmaker representing Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency, disclosed that the armed men systematically invaded several homes before eventually confronting and capturing Brigadier General Tsiga.
Military Response
Following the abduction, the Nigerian military swiftly launched an extensive search-and-rescue operation aimed at locating Tsiga and apprehending his captors.
Troops from the Nigerian Army have been deployed for the mission, with Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade, personally leading the operation deep into the forests of Katsina State.
A senior military officer confirmed to Punch that “Brigadier General Omopariola has been in the bush since the night of the incident, spearheading efforts to track down the kidnappers and ensure the safe rescue of the retired General.”
Security agencies have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to secure the release of the kidnapped victims while ensuring the perpetrators face justice.