The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Abuja, has refuted a recent article by retired Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi, which claimed that military generals contributed financially to the release of Brigadier General Mahrazu Tsiga (retired), who was held captive for 56 days.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described the article as misleading and emphasized that the rescue was solely the result of a coordinated Search and Rescue operation by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, alongside other non-kinetic efforts.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a misleading article… This claim clearly undermines the tremendous efforts made by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma in rescuing Brigadier General Tsiga through a well-coordinated operation,” the statement read.
Gusau acknowledged that the article included a message of appreciation from General Tsiga to both military officers and civilians who offered support. However, he noted the importance of recognizing the rigorous efforts of the armed forces rather than promoting false narratives.
“It is necessary to clarify the relentless efforts undertaken by troops that facilitated General Tsiga’s release,” he stated.
Providing details of the operation, Gusau explained that the abduction occurred in the early hours of February 6, 2025, in Tsiga, Kafur District of Bakori LGA, Katsina State. Troops of the 17 Brigade responded around 3:00 a.m., collaborating with the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma to launch an immediate pursuit.
The troops combed hideouts in Jeka, Areda, and Zango (Kankara LGA), as well as Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, Matallawa, and Bakkai (Faskari LGA). Although the kidnappers were not directly confronted, their hideouts were raided, forcing them to abandon both rustled animals and captives during their retreat.
On February 8, acting on credible intelligence, troops targeted hideouts in Yankuzo and Gidan Dankaka (Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State), associated with terrorist kingpin Ado Aliero, believed to have ties to the abductors. While General Tsiga was not located, subsequent airstrikes on Dunya Hill—a known bandit stronghold—disrupted the terrorists and led to the escape of several captives. Sadly, due to health challenges, General Tsiga was unable to escape at the time.
During the operations, troops rescued Barau Garba, a teacher abducted alongside General Tsiga. He was later reunited with his family in Tsiga and recounted his experience in a video.
Additional assaults were carried out in Pauwa Hills and Matallawa (Kankara LGA), resulting in the rescue of 84 kidnapped victims and the neutralization of several terrorists. Three soldiers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation.
General Gusau emphasized that the military’s efforts did not wane throughout the period of captivity. Air and ground operations were conducted across Danmusa, Kankara, and Faskari LGAs, maintaining pressure on the abductors until Tsiga’s eventual release.
He described the article by Gen. Abdullahi as a “presumable act of mischief” aimed at discrediting the sacrifices of troops fighting to rid the North West of banditry and terrorism.
“The rescue of General Tsiga was achieved through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. His life was considered invaluable, and every necessary measure was adopted to ensure his safe return,” Gusau said.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding national security and called on the public to support ongoing operations by providing credible intelligence.
“Troops will continue to support all efforts in ensuring peace and security across the country,” he concluded.
