Suspected bandits have reportedly abducted five Islamic clerics who gathered for a prayer session at the residence of Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari in Talata Mafara, Zamfara State.
The incident occurred on Saturday, September 12, 2026, when the clerics, who travelled from communities in Bakura and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas, were attending a prayer gathering at the residence of the former Zamfara governor.
Those reportedly taken away by the attackers are Imam Yahuza, First Jumma’at Imam of Dogon Madacci; Magawata Abdullahi, Second Jumma’at Imam of Dogon Madacci; Malam Shehu Dakko; Imam Bala Fagon; and Na’ibi Tasi’u of Tungar Nagudai.
A source familiar with the incident said the clerics were invited to the residence for the religious gathering before the bandits reportedly stormed the area and abducted them.
“They came for a prayer gathering at Senator Yari’s residence, but unfortunately, they were abducted by the bandits,” the source said.
Another source described the development as alarming, saying the incident underscored the worsening security situation in the state.
“This is very disturbing. If people can be abducted while attending a gathering at the residence of a former governor and serving senator, it shows how serious the security situation has become,” the source said.
Yari, who represents Zamfara West in the Senate, is also the Director-General of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 presidential campaign.
The reported incident has sparked fresh concerns among residents over the safety of communities and public gatherings in Zamfara, where bandit attacks and kidnappings have continued to pose a major security challenge.
Residents have renewed calls for security agencies to intensify operations against armed groups and prevent further attacks and abductions.
As of press time, the Zamfara State Police Command had yet to officially confirm the reported abduction or provide details on the identities and whereabouts of the victims.