In the aftermath of the abduction and eventual release of retired Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga, a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), fresh details have emerged about the efforts that led to his freedom. Abdullahi Balarabe Dabai, a federal lawmaker representing Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency in Katsina State, disclosed that a combined effort by military generals and civilians was instrumental in raising the ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
General Tsiga was abducted on February 6, 2025, when over 100 heavily armed bandits stormed his residence in Tsiga village, Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State. The assailants, who also kidnapped nine other residents during the attack, initially demanded a ransom of ₦250 million for his release. The abduction sparked widespread concern, with security agencies launching a manhunt to rescue the retired general and other captives.
According to Dabai, both retired and serving military officers played a significant role in mobilizing resources to meet the ransom demands. Civilians from Katsina State also contributed funds in solidarity with the efforts to secure Tsiga’s release. Although specific details about the exact amount paid remain undisclosed, it is believed that negotiations with the kidnappers led to a reduction in the ransom before payment was made.
Tsiga regained his freedom after spending 22 harrowing days in captivity. Upon his release on March 1, 2025, he was immediately taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical evaluation. The Katsina State Police Command and other security agencies have yet to provide official comments on how his release was secured.
The abduction and subsequent ransom payment highlight Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with insecurity and the prevalence of kidnapping for ransom. The incident has reignited debates about the effectiveness of security measures in rural areas and the growing influence of informants aiding criminal groups. Local government officials have attributed such attacks to insider collaboration, calling for stricter measures to curb these activities.
While General Tsiga’s safe return has been celebrated, the incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address banditry and kidnapping across northern Nigeria. For many Nigerians, this case serves as a grim reminder of the persistent challenges posed by insecurity in the country.