Daina Usman, the Secretary of Munya Local Government Area in Niger State, has regained his freedom after escaping from his abductors.
Council Chairman, Aminu Najumei, confirmed on Friday that Usman managed to break free while the kidnappers were searching for a hiding place.
The attack took place around 10 p.m. on Thursday in Sarkin Pawa, where armed men invaded Usman’s home near a riverbank, taking him, his wife, two children, and another individual.
The assailants then moved their captives toward Chikun Local Government Area in Kaduna State, a known hideout for criminal elements.
Security sources reported that Sarkin Pawa has been repeatedly targeted by bandits, while Chikun serves as an escape route for kidnappers.
Upon receiving a distress call, security forces, including military personnel from the Forward Operating Base in Sarkin Pawa, police tactical teams, and local vigilantes, launched a search-and-rescue mission to track down the kidnappers and recover the victims.
Confirming the incident, Niger State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun stated that efforts were ongoing to rescue Usman’s wife and children.
“He was taken around 10 p.m. but escaped early this morning at about 3 a.m. Efforts to secure the release of the remaining victims are still underway,” Abiodun said in a brief message.