By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) under 2 Division and Sector 3 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims during intensified clearance operations across parts of Kogi and Kwara States.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the rescue operation took place on 13 October 2025 during a night patrol along the Egbe–Okuran axis in Kogi State and the Okoloke–Patigi route in Kwara State. The troops intercepted the victims at Essalu community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescued victims, comprising four males and five females, were identified as residents of Matoku community in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State, who were abducted by terrorists during a raid on 24 September 2025. The victims disclosed that the assailants had also rustled an unconfirmed number of cattle during the attack.
Lieutenant Colonel Okoye noted that the success was a result of sustained and extensive clearance operations conducted by troops of 2 Division and Sector 3 across Esanlu, Patigi, Babasango, Etsuyum, and adjoining communities within Kogi and Kwara States.
The victims narrated that the sustained operations by the Nigerian Army forced the kidnappers to abandon them and flee their hideout due to mounting pressure from advancing troops.
The rescued persons were identified as Mr. Abdullahi Umar (35), Alhaji Umaru Sarki Fawa (55), Mr. Labaran Abubakar (45), and Mr. Umar Yanda (30). Others include Mrs. Hassana Muhammad (25), Mrs. Maryam Muhammad (27), Mrs. Aisha Idris (20), and Miss Zainab Ahmed (12). The victims received first aid treatment and were provided with food before being formally handed over to the Patigi Local Government Authority for reunification with their families.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, who addressed the victims, commended the troops of 12 and 22 Brigades for their synergy and operational efficiency. He also visited Lata community in Patigi LGA, where he encouraged the soldiers to maintain momentum in ongoing operations.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the country and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security forces in combating criminal activities effectively.
admin