The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports that Islamic scholars were abducted from the residence of former Zamfara State Governor and Senator, Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Headquarters 8 Division, Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, described the reports circulating on various media platforms as misleading and urged the public to disregard the claims.
In a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the Army categorically stated that no cleric was abducted at Senator Yari’s residence.
According to the statement, the reported abduction did not occur at the senator’s residence in Talata Mafara, contrary to the narrative being circulated.
The Army, however, confirmed that intelligence reports indicated that some persons were abducted while travelling from the Sububu Forest axis in Bakura Local Government Area towards Talata Mafara.
It said troops, working closely with other security agencies and local intelligence networks, had intensified efforts to locate and rescue the victims.
The military urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, warning against the spread of sensationalised reports and unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic or compromising ongoing tactical operations.
The Army also appealed to residents to continue providing security forces with timely and actionable intelligence to support efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustained operations against criminal elements and the protection of communities across the North-West.
