Abduction and Release of Kebbi State Deputy Speaker
The Deputy Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Samaila Bagudo, has been released after being abducted by gunmen suspected to be affiliated with the Lakurawa terrorist group. This development was confirmed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, during a telephone interview late Saturday night. He stated that the lawmaker has been reunited with his family and is now safe.
Bagudo was kidnapped on Thursday night, October 31, 2025, at approximately 8:20 pm in his hometown of Bagudo, which serves as the headquarters of the Bagudo Local Government Area. The incident occurred shortly after he had completed the Isha’i prayers. Armed with advanced weaponry, the attackers reportedly stormed the town, seized the 60-year-old legislator, and took him to an undisclosed location. This act caused significant unrest among the local population.
In response to the abduction, the Kebbi State Police Command, in coordination with military personnel and vigilante groups, initiated a large-scale search operation. The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, had previously confirmed the kidnapping, assuring the public that a coordinated effort was underway to rescue the legislator. He quoted the Commissioner of Police, Bello M. Sani, who emphasized the command’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of the Honorable member and the apprehension of the perpetrators.
“The Commissioner of Police reiterates the Command’s unwavering determination to ensure the safe rescue of the Honourable member and the arrest of the culprits,” the statement read.
Residents of Bagudo and neighboring communities remained on edge while security forces conducted searches along suspected routes used by bandits and in forested hideouts. Despite the high level of tension, the situation gradually eased as the search continued.
Although specific details about Bagudo’s release remain limited, government sources have indicated that he was freed unharmed. The exact circumstances of his release and the involvement of any parties in his rescue are still under investigation.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of public officials and the increasing threat posed by armed groups in the region. It also highlights the need for stronger security measures and community engagement to prevent such incidents in the future.