Kebbi deputy speaker regains freedom after nine days in captivity

Muhammad Bagudo, the deputy speaker of the Kebbi house of assembly, regained freedom after being held captive by gunmen for nine days.

On October 31, the lawmaker was abducted by suspected bandits in Bagudo LGA, while returning home shortly after observing Isha’i prayer.

Following the kidnap, the Kebbi police command, in collaboration with military personnel and vigilance groups, launched a manhunt.

In a statement on Sunday, Nafi’u Abubakar, spokesperson of the Kebbi police command, said Bagudo was released on November 8 around 8pm and received treatment at a medical facility before being reunited with his family.

“The Kebbi State Police Command is using this medium to commend the courage, resilience, and bravery of the combined team of security personnel deployed for search and rescue operations during the unfortunate incident” the statement reads.

“The command also appreciates the good people of Kebbi State, who provided vital and accurate information that was used to ensure the safe return of the Honourable member.”

The police spokesperson reiterated the state command’s commitment to combatting banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across Kebbi.

Abubakar urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or security agency for prompt response.