Nigerian troops rescue 71 abducted passengers in Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerian Army troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA, in collaboration with local security forces, have rescued 71 persons abducted by armed bandits along the Faru–Janbako Road in Maradun Local Government Area.

Zagazola Makama report that the incident occurred on April 28 at about 9:10 p.m., when a truck conveying 80 passengers from Niger State to Sabon Birni in Sokoto State was ambushed by suspected bandits at Tungan Na-Yarchiga.

Top security officials confirmed the development, stating that the bandits forcefully abducted all the occupants of the vehicle.

Following the report, a joint security team comprising of army, police Zamfara State Community Protection Guards (ZFSCPG), and local vigilantes (Yansakai) mobilized to the area and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle.

The intervention led to the successful rescue of 71 abducted persons, including men, women, and children. The victims were immediately taken to Faru Hospital for medical evaluation.

Sources said efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining nine victims still in captivity.

Nigerian troops rescue 71 abducted passengers in Zamfara

Yobe is committed to addressing ASUU problems. – Buni

BY: Yahaya Wakili

Yobe State Governor Hon. Mai Mala Buni CON has said that his administration is committed to addressing issues relating to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) amidst competing demands.

Governor Buni started this today while receiving the leadership of the union’s Yobe State chapter, led by its chairman, Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim Karage, at the Government House, Damaturu.

He said the government will continue to give priority attention to the state-owned university in order to enhance its academic and physical development.

The governor appealed to the union to remain calm and continue to engage with the government, noting that his administration works out modalities for amicable responses to issues raised by the members.

Governor Buni stressed that one of the objectives of the union is to organize and represent the interests of the academic staff of the state university and called for mutual understanding between the government and the union.

Speaking earlier, the ASUU chairman of the Yobe State chapter, Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim Karage, said they were at the Government House to advocate for better funding of the state university with a view to enhancing a conducive and better atmosphere for effective teaching, learning, and research.

Dr. Ahmad Karage appreciates Mala’s administration for giving scholarships to students, especially law students. 

No Bomb Blast in Maiduguri Prison; Fire in Okah’s Cell Was Self-Inflicted – Authorities

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerian Correctional Service has debunked reports of a bomb explosion at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MaSCC) in Maiduguri, describing the incident involving detainee Charles Okah as a false alarm.

Intelligence sources informed Zagazola Makama that, contrary to circulating claims, there was no bomb blast at the facility on Sunday night. Authorities confirmed that the fire in Okah’s cell was self-inflicted after he allegedly ignited his mattress using a box of matches in an attempt to cause panic within the facility.

“He lit up his bed and immediately began shouting from the window that there was a fire,” an official stated. “When officers arrived, we found the mattress burning and quickly extinguished the fire.” No further damage occurred to any part of the cell or the prison.

Following the incident, a search was conducted in the cell, during which a box of matches was recovered from Okah. He was immediately taken to the prison clinic for medical attention and is currently recuperating. The damaged mattress has been replaced.

“There is no evidence of any explosive device, and there was no external breach or attack on the facility,” the official added. “If there had been a bomb blast in Okah’s cell, how come nothing happened to him? He is still the one screaming that there was a fire in his cell.”

The authorities also dismissed rumors of absent night-duty officers, confirming that personnel responded swiftly to contain the situation and ensure the safety of other inmates.

When asked how the inmate gained access to matches, the authorities explained that Okah was allowed to attend church service due to the Easter celebration, which may have provided him access to the matches he used to set his bed on fire. Regarding the motive behind his actions, the authorities stated that Okah is a controversial inmate who frequently creates trouble and problems.

Mr. Charles Okah has been held at the Maiduguri custodial facility since March 16, 2025.

No Bomb Blast in Maiduguri Prison; Fire in Okah’s Cell Was Self-Inflicted – Authorities