By Ademuyiwa Balikis
Tension has gripped Kebbi State following the abduction of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Muhammad Sama’ila Bagudu, by suspected bandits in Bagudo Local Government Area.
The incident occurred around 8:20 p.m. on Friday, October 31st, when the lawmaker was returning home after observing the Isha’i prayer. Armed men reportedly stormed Bagudo town and seized him, taking him to an unknown destination.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the abduction in a statement issued on Saturday, November 1st, by its Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar.
According to Abubakar, the Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, has ordered an immediate manhunt for the abductors and deployed a joint team comprising police tactical units, military personnel, and local vigilantes to the area.
“The joint team is currently combing the bandits’ routes and nearby forests with a view to rescuing the lawmaker unhurt and arresting the perpetrators of the dastardly act,” the statement read.
Abubakar assured residents that the police were working tirelessly to secure the safe release of the Deputy Speaker. He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and to support security agencies with useful information.
The state government has equally confirmed the incident, stating that all relevant security formations have been placed on alert to ensure the Deputy Speaker’s freedom.
The abduction has sparked fear and unease among residents of Bagudo and surrounding communities.
