Family Laments As Zamfara Man Rots In Bandits Camp Despite N2.5million Ransom Payment | Sahara Reporters

Bakatsine said the victim had left his hometown to earn a living and support his immediate and extended family before he was kidnapped.

A family in Zamfara State has appealed for urgent prayers and intervention after a man identified as Isihaka (Isau) reportedly remained in the custody of bandits despite the payment of ₦2.5million as ransom.

According to a security analyst, Bakatsine, on Friday, Isihaka, an indigene of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, was abducted by bandits along the notorious Birnin Gwari Road in Kaduna State while travelling in search of livelihood opportunities.

Bakatsine said the victim had left his hometown to earn a living and support his immediate and extended family before he was kidnapped.

“This is Isihaka (Isau), an indigene of Maru LGA, Zamfara State, who left home to seek a living and provide for his wife, children, parents and other family members,” he wrote.

He disclosed that despite the financial hardship facing the victim’s relatives, family members and friends mobilised resources to meet the kidnappers’ demand.

“Sadly, he was kidnapped by bandits along the Birnin Gwari road in Kaduna State. His family and friends struggled to raise ₦2.5 million, which was paid as ransom, but his captors have still refused to release him.”

Bakatsine added that the victim had now spent several days in captivity even after the ransom payment.

The security analyst also shared a photograph showing Isihaka alongside another abductee believed to be held by the same criminal group. In the image, the two men appear seated on the ground in a forested location, with one of them visibly restrained by chains around his ankles.

He said the victim’s family was pleading for public support and prayers for his safe return.

“His family is appealing for prayers for his safe return and for all other victims being held by criminals across the country.”

Bakatsine lamented the continuing wave of kidnappings on Nigerian highways, questioning how long innocent travellers would continue to fall victim to criminal gangs.

“How long will innocent people continue to disappear on our roads simply because they are trying to make a living?” he asked.

The latest incident highlights the persistent insecurity along the Birnin Gwari axis, a route that has for years been regarded as one of Nigeria’s most dangerous highways due to frequent attacks by armed bandits targeting commuters, motorists and commercial vehicles.