Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has disclosed that bandits once abducted two of his brothers and demanded a ransom of N300 million for their release.
The governor made the revelation while speaking about the security challenges confronting Zamfara and other states in Nigeria’s North West region, where kidnapping for ransom remains a major threat to residents.
Governor recounts kidnapping ordeal
According to Lawal, the abductors contacted the family after the kidnapping and demanded N300 million before releasing the victims.
The governor’s remarks underscore how deeply the security crisis has affected communities in Zamfara, including families of public officials.
Kidnapping for ransom has become one of the most persistent security challenges in the state, with armed groups operating across several local government areas and targeting farmers, traders, community leaders and travellers.
Zamfara remains at the centre of banditry crisis
Zamfara has experienced years of attacks linked to armed bandit groups. Security experts and government officials have repeatedly identified the state as one of the worst-hit areas in Nigeria’s banditry crisis.
Recent incidents have included mass abductions, village raids and attacks on communities attempting to negotiate peace with armed groups. In June 2026, dozens of residents were reportedly abducted during a peace mission in Maradun Local Government Area.
The violence forms part of a broader conflict that has affected several states across northwestern Nigeria, leading to thousands of deaths and displacements over the past decade.
Renewed calls for stronger security measures
The governor’s disclosure comes amid ongoing efforts by federal and state authorities to curb insecurity through military operations, intelligence gathering and community-based interventions.
Despite these efforts, attacks and kidnappings continue to pose significant challenges across parts of Zamfara and neighbouring states.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that addressing the crisis will require a combination of military action, improved intelligence, economic development and stronger protection for vulnerable rural communities.
As authorities continue their campaign against armed groups, residents across the region remain hopeful for lasting solutions to a crisis that has disrupted livelihoods and threatened public safety for years.
