The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has refuted claims that senior military officers pooled funds to secure the release of retired Brigadier-General Mahrazu Tsiga, who was abducted and held for 56 days.
Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Monday, described the assertion by retired Brigadier-General Ismaila Abdullahi as misleading and dismissive of the intense efforts by troops involved in Operation Fansan Yamma.
Gusau emphasized that the military had launched a comprehensive Search and Rescue mission, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, which ultimately led to the release of the former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC.
He said while expressions of gratitude were extended to various individuals who showed concern, any narrative that sidelines the operational efforts of the military was not only inaccurate but unfair to the troops involved.
“The abduction occurred in the early hours of February 6, 2025, in Tsiga, Kafur District of Bakori Local Government Area, Katsina State. By 3:00 am, troops from the 17 Brigade were mobilized and immediately began pursuing the perpetrators, supported by air assets from Operation Fansan Yamma,” Gusau said.
He noted that soldiers scoured suspected hideouts in communities such as Jeka, Areda, and Zango in Kankara LGA, later extending their search to locations in Faskari LGA, including Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, Matallawa, and Bakkai.
According to him, though no direct confrontation occurred initially, the sustained pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon stolen livestock and several captives during their retreat. The troops continued their pursuit despite the tough terrain.
The statement said on February 8, the military escalated its offensive with early-morning raids in Yankuzo and Gidan Dankaka in Zamfara State’s Tsafe LGA, targeting camps linked to a notorious terrorist leader, Ado Aliero.
It noted that airstrikes were later launched on Dunya Hill, believed to be a major base of the abductors — disrupting the group and enabling several hostages to flee. However, General Tsiga was unable to escape due to health-related limitations, according to the Defence spokesperson.
Gusau revealed that one of the freed captives, Barau Garba — a teacher from Government Secondary School, Tsiga — was rescued and has since been reunited with his family. He also recounted his experience in a video shared with authorities.
Further operations in Pauwa Hills and parts of Matallawa in Kankara LGA led to the rescue of 84 more kidnapped individuals. During these confrontations, several insurgents were neutralized, while three soldiers sustained gunshot wounds.
Gusau reaffirmed that the military remained relentless in its pursuit of the kidnappers, maintaining pressure through continuous air and ground offensives. He stressed the importance of acknowledging the dedication and sacrifices of the personnel involved.
He dismissed online narratives undermining the military’s efforts as “mischievous,” aimed at discrediting the armed forces’ commitment to eliminating insurgents and criminal elements from the Northwest.
“The life of General Tsiga is invaluable. Every necessary measure was taken to ensure his safe return,” Gusau said.
He added that operations would continue in support of national peace and security, urging the public to assist by providing actionable intelligence.
