Five Sheikhs Kidnapped After Praying for Tinubu’s Re-election Still in Captivity 41 Days Later

Five Islamic clerics abducted by bandits in Zamfara State remain in captivity 41 days after their kidnapping, conflict reporter Bakatsine said. They were abducted on September 12, 2026, while returning from a prayer gathering for President Bola Tinubu at the Talata Mafara residence of Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari. The victims are Imam Yahuza, Magawata Abdullahi, Malam Shehu Dakko, Imam Bala Fagon and Na’ibi Tasi’u; their captors reportedly demanded a ransom of 30 million naira. No release has been confirmed, amid continuing concerns over armed banditry and kidnappings in the state.