A lecturer at Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Zamfara State, Aliyu Damri, and his son, Ahmad, have finally regained their freedom after spending about a month in the custody of bandits.
According to reports, the lecturer, who once served as the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, was abducted alongside his son from their residence in Bakura town on January 23, 2025. The incident, which left the community in fear, was one of several attacks that have rocked the North-West region in recent months.
Sources close to the family confirmed that the duo was released on the evening of February 20, 2025, after intense efforts by relatives and local mediators. However, it remains unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure their release, as neither the family nor security authorities have issued an official statement on that detail.
Residents of Bakura and members of the academic community at Abdu Gusau Polytechnic have expressed immense relief over their safe return. Many described the incident as a “traumatic experience” and called on the government to strengthen security across rural communities and educational institutions in the state.
Zamfara State has faced numerous cases of kidnapping and banditry in recent years, with lecturers, students, and commuters often targeted. The state government and security agencies have repeatedly assured citizens of ongoing efforts to restore peace, but many residents continue to live in fear of renewed attacks.
The release of Mr. Damri and his son is a welcome development, bringing hope that ongoing negotiations and security interventions will lead to the freedom of other captives still held by bandits in the region.
