Kebbi Deputy Speaker, Samaila Bagudu Kidnapped
Tension has gripped Kebbi State following the abduction of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Samaila Bagudu, by gunmen in his hometown.
The incident occurred on Friday evening in Bagudu town, headquarters of Bagudu Local Government Area.
According to eyewitnesses, the armed men stormed the community in large numbers, shooting sporadically to cause panic before seizing the lawmaker.
Sources said the Deputy Speaker was kidnapped shortly after observing evening prayers at a local mosque and was on his way home when the attackers struck.
Residents reportedly fled for safety as the gunmen fired into the air during the operation. The assailants then whisked Bagudu away to an unknown destination.
It is not yet clear whether the kidnappers have made contact with his family or demanded ransom.
Confirming the development, the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, described the abduction as “deeply troubling” and said security agencies have been mobilised to rescue the victim.
“The government is in touch with security authorities, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe return of the Deputy Speaker,” he said.
The Kebbi State Police Command and other security outfits have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Local vigilante groups have also joined in combing nearby forests believed to be the hideouts of bandits operating within the area.
Hon. Samaila Bagudu is one of the ranking members of the Kebbi State House of Assembly and represents Bagudu Constituency. His abduction has sparked outrage and fear among residents, especially amid growing concerns over the increasing wave of insecurity in northern Nigeria.
In recent months, several states in the region have witnessed a rise in kidnappings and attacks by armed groups targeting both civilians and public officials. The abduction of a high-ranking state legislator underscores the worsening security situation and the need for more proactive measures to protect citizens.
As of press time, there has been no official word on Bagudu’s whereabouts or the identity of his abductors. Security operations, according to government sources, are continuing in earnest to ensure his safe release.
