The Defence Headquarters has dismissed circulating reports that suggest serving and retired military personnel raised money to pay a ransom for the release of Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga (retd), a former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps.
In a statement issued on Monday, the military clarified that Tsiga’s freedom was secured solely through coordinated military operations backed by intelligence efforts.
Tsiga was kidnapped on February 6, 2025, in his hometown, Tsiga, situated in the Kafur area of Bakori Local Government Area, Katsina State.
His abduction sparked widespread concern, amplified by a viral WhatsApp message purportedly from Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi, alleging that some officers made financial contributions through Tsiga’s son to facilitate a ransom payment.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, rejected the claims, describing them as unfounded and a deliberate attempt to undermine the efforts of the armed forces in tackling insecurity.
According to Gusau, troops from 17 Brigade immediately launched a comprehensive rescue mission under Operation Fansan Yamma, mobilizing both ground and aerial assets across suspected terrorist strongholds in Katsina and Zamfara states. Areas searched included Jeka, Zango, Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, and Pauwa Hills.
Although initial efforts did not result in direct contact with the kidnappers, the sustained military pressure compelled the criminals to abandon stolen livestock and some of their captives.
Gusau noted that despite challenging terrain, the troops pressed on. Air raids on Dunya Hill, a known terrorist enclave, played a key role in scattering the abductors and aiding the escape of some victims. Among those freed was Barau Garba, a local teacher who has since been reunited with his family.
Due to health complications, Tsiga could not flee with the others during that particular raid.
However, a subsequent operation at Pauwa Hills led to the rescue of 84 more captives. During these missions, several terrorists were eliminated while three soldiers sustained injuries.
Further airstrikes were launched on locations in Zamfara State, including Yankuzo and Gidan Dankaka, aimed at neutralizing notorious terrorist leader Ado Aliero, who was suspected of being linked to Tsiga’s abductors. While Aliero was not captured, the operation dealt a significant blow to his network.
Gusau reiterated that the entire rescue effort was achieved through military means, without any ransom payment. He commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifice, emphasizing that the mission combined both tactical combat and non-combat strategies.
The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians to ignore false narratives and continue to assist security forces with reliable information to support ongoing operations nationwide.