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Zamfara Lawmaker's Daughters Rescued After 17 Months in Captivity |
Maryam (10) and Nana Asma’u (eight) were reunited with their father at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. Their rescue resulted from a combined effort by security agencies, coordinated by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The Office of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, successfully secured the release of two daughters of Honourable Aminu Ardo, a member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, who had been held captive for 17 months.
Maryam (10) and Nana Asma’u (eight) were reunited with their father at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. Their rescue resulted from a combined effort by security agencies, coordinated by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The children were initially abducted alongside their mother and other siblings. Fortunately, the mother managed to escape with the other children, leaving Maryam and Nana Asma’u in the hands of the bandits.
The abduction occurred in November 2022 in the quiet village of Jangebe, Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Bandits, riding over 60 motorcycles, invaded the residence of Honourable Aminu Ardo. They abducted his wife, Hauwa’u, and their four young children: Maryam, Nana Asma’u, Ummul Khairi, and Abdulrazaq.
During their captivity, the abductees endured harsh conditions, surviving on meager rations of maize and salt, and drinking water from a nearby stream. Hauwa’u gave birth under extremely difficult circumstances, but tragically, the newborn did not survive. Despite the unbearable situation, her strength and resolve remained unbroken.
In 2023, during the rainy season, Hauwa’u managed to unchain herself and escape with two of her children, Ummul Khairi and Abdulrazaq. However, Maryam and Nana Asma’u remained in captivity.
The successful rescue operation resulted from strategic initiatives, leveraging advanced intelligence from the Force Intelligence Department and operational tactics from the Anti-Kid
The police force's commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes is unwavering. The success of this operation is a testament to the dedication of officers, the effective use of intelligence, and the collaboration between various law enforcement agencies.
The police extend their deepest sympathies to families who have suffered due to these crimes, assuring them that their resilience is a source of inspiration for the force's intensified efforts. The police stand in solidarity with the community and pledge to continue their tireless fight to ensure that no individual or family has to endure such ordeals in the future.
