The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly debunked claims suggesting that financial contributions from senior officers secured the release of retired Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga, affirming instead that coordinated military operations were responsible for his rescue.
The DHQ’s response follows a publication by Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi, which alleged that military generals pooled resources to negotiate General Tsiga’s release after 56 days in captivity. In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military clarified that troops of Operation Fansan Yamma undertook a comprehensive Search and Rescue mission, bolstered by intelligence-led and air-ground operations, which led to the former NYSC Director-General’s eventual freedom.
General Tsiga was abducted in the early hours of February 6, 2025, from his residence in Tsiga, Kafur District, Katsina State. By 3:00 a.m., troops from 17 Brigade had been mobilized and began an immediate pursuit, supported by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma. Operations were launched across multiple locations including Jeka, Areda, Zango, Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, Matallawa, and Bakkai in Katsina and Zamfara States.
Although initial efforts did not result in direct contact with the abductors, the military successfully pressured the criminals into abandoning several captives and rustled livestock. The operations extended to areas known to harbor terrorist kingpin Ado Aliero, but he remained elusive.
A turning point occurred during air strikes on Dunya Hill, a suspected terrorist hideout believed to have held General Tsiga. While he was unable to escape due to health issues, other captives—including Barau Garba, a teacher abducted alongside Tsiga—managed to flee and were rescued by troops. Garba was later reunited with his family and shared his ordeal in a video testimony.
Subsequent operations at Pauwa Hills and Matallawa led to the rescue of 84 additional kidnapped victims and the neutralization of several terrorists. Three soldiers were wounded during the operations.
The DHQ emphasized that since the day of the abduction, troops have remained on the ground in Katsina, Zamfara, and neighboring areas, combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to ensure General Tsiga’s safe return.
Brigadier General Gusau condemned the misleading narrative, calling it “an act of mischief” that seeks to undermine the dedication and sacrifice of Nigerian troops. “The military remains committed to securing the nation and urges the public to continue providing credible intelligence in support of ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the country,” he said.
