Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, has commended security agencies for the successful rescue of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Alhaji Muhammad Bagudo, who was abducted last week.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, the governor described the operation as a demonstration of the commitment and professionalism of the military and other security operatives deployed across the state.
“I wish to sincerely commend the security agencies for their gallant efforts to rescue the Deputy Speaker. This shows the unwavering commitment of the security agencies deployed to serve the state,” Governor Idris said.
He urged security formations to sustain the tempo until all persons still in captivity are rescued and reunited with their families.
He also appealed to residents to support security agencies with timely intelligence to help restore lasting peace across the state.
The governor further hailed the synergy among security agencies, noting that their coordinated approach has significantly helped in tackling criminal activities in recent months.
Bagudo, who represents Bagudo West Constituency, was abducted last Friday shortly after the Isha’i prayer in his hometown.
He was held for nearly eight days before being rescued on Saturday following an intensified joint security operation involving the military, police and local vigilantes.
His abduction had triggered heightened anxiety across the state, prompting Governor Idris to direct security agencies to spare no effort in ensuring his safe return.
Saturday’s rescue, according to government sources, has further boosted public confidence in ongoing anti-banditry operations across Kebbi and neighbouring states.
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed Bagudo’s release.
In a statement on Sunday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, said the lawmaker regained his freedom on Saturday, November 8, at about 8:00 p.m., after more than a week in captivity.
He has since been reunited with his family after receiving medical attention.
Kotarkoshi commended the combined efforts of security operatives who participated in the rescue, describing their conduct as courageous and professional.
“The command appreciates the courage, resilience and bravery of the combined team of security personnel deployed for the search and rescue operation, as well as the good people of Kebbi State who provided vital and accurate information that aided the safe return of the honourable member,” the statement read.
The police reiterated their determination to sustain ongoing operations against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, and urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious persons or movements to security agencies.
