In a remarkable display of coordinated security efforts, 17 victims, including several minors, were freed from their captors in Kaduna after a well-orchestrated operation led by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
The rescue occurred on April 9, 2025, around 4:30 p.m., following an intense period of intelligence operations that ultimately led to the kidnappers’ release of the hostages.
As revealed by security expert Zagazola Makama on Twitter, the victims were initially abducted from Sarkin Fawa in Niger State on March 3, 2025.
“The successful release is a testament to the dedication and strategic use of intelligence by our security agencies,” Makama stated.
Among those rescued were several children, including Duza Ezekiel (13), Ishaku Ishaya (12), and Favour Ezekiel, a one-year-old. The operation also freed adults such as Rebecca Ezekiel (32) and Victoria Ishaya (32).
Following their release, the victims were taken to a medical facility in Kaduna for evaluation and were confirmed to be in stable condition.
Security sources indicated that plans are underway to reunite the victims with their families.
The event has provided some relief to the community, though concerns over ongoing security threats remain.
“We hope these efforts continue to ensure the safety of our people,” one local resident remarked.