B∆ndits release  electoral commissioner after 11 months in c∆ptivity

Bandits release  electoral commissioner after 11 months in captivity

A commissioner with the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission, Mohammed Wawa, has regained his freedom nearly 11 months after he was abducted by bandits.

Wawa, who is from Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, was reportedly released around the Funtua axis near the boundary between Katsina and Zamfara states.

A family source said the commissioner was released on Wednesday night following the payment of an additional ransom to his abductors.

More than 300 days in captivity

Speaking after his release, Wawa reportedly described his time in captivity as a traumatic experience, saying he spent more than 300 days without taking a bath.

He said his captors gave him only one meal a day, which mainly consisted of corn flour and Miyan Kuka, a traditional northern soup.

He also said the water available to the captives was the same source used by cattle.

“The source of drinking water was the same as that of cows. We stayed in the midst of cattle, drinking the same water,” he reportedly said.

Wawa added that he did not take a bath throughout his prolonged captivity and that taking a long bath was the first thing he did after being reunited with his family.

Abducted on New Bussa–Ibbi road

The commissioner was kidnapped in September 2025 along the New Bussa–Ibbi road while returning from his hometown ahead of the Niger State local government elections.

According to his family, a ransom of ₦40 million was initially paid to secure his release, but the kidnappers allegedly refused to let him go.

The family said an additional ransom was later paid before his release on Wednesday.

Family seeks medical attention

A family member said Wawa’s physical condition reflected the hardship he allegedly endured during his time with the kidnappers.

The family called for comprehensive medical examinations and treatment to assess his health following the prolonged ordeal.

“Merely looking at the barrister, you will know that he has gone through a lot. He needs a comprehensive medical check-up,” the source said.

The family also expressed appreciation to individuals and groups who supported them during the period of his abduction and prayed for the safe release of other Nigerians still being held by kidnappers.

Security concerns persist

Kidnapping by armed groups remains a major security challenge in parts of Niger State, particularly along remote highways and communities close to the state’s borders.

The New Bussa–Ibbi corridor has previously been affected by insecurity, exposing travellers and residents to the risk of abduction.

Wawa’s prolonged captivity has again highlighted the difficulties faced by families of kidnapping victims and the persistent security challenges along some major roads in Niger State.

His release comes nearly a year after his abduction, amid continued calls for stronger security measures to protect residents and travellers across the state.