Relief mixed with grief swept through the Ibeto community in Magama Local Government Area of Niger State as 17 residents, abducted by armed bandits nearly three months ago, finally regained their freedom.
The victims were kidnapped on October 1, 2025, when bandits reportedly stormed the community.
Four people were k!lled while nine others sustained injuries. Among those abducted is a lawyer, Isyaku Muhammad Danjuma.
Hours before his abduction, he had posted on Facebook warning locals about the movement of bandits from Uccu towards Ibeto with a herd of stolen cattle.
It was allege that his location may have been leaked to the attackers by informants. The bandits reportedly demanded N200m ransom initially, but later reduced it to N80m after negotiations.
Family, friends, colleagues and community members confirmed the development on Facebook.
According to a colleague, the victims were released on Thursday, December 25.
One of the abducted victims d!ed in captivity.
