Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have successfully rescued retired Nigerian Army Colonel Ajanaku following his abduction by gunmen in Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State. The retired officer was kidnapped in the early hours of January 5, 2026, from his residence along Rukuba Road. The kidnappers later demanded a ransom of ₦200 million, but the officer was rescued without any payment.
According to an Army statement, troops from Sectors 1 and 3 quickly mobilized after a distress call, tracking the abductors along their withdrawal route through the Wildlife Park. “Troops tactically switched to covert operations, which culminated in the successful rescue of Colonel Ajanaku at about 1730 hours at the outskirts of Rafiki Axis, Bassa LGA,” the statement said. The rescued officer is now undergoing medical assessment and is reported to be in stable condition.
The Army added that Colonel Ajanaku will be debriefed to provide intelligence to support ongoing operations. Forces are continuing combing surrounding forests to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers and dismantle their network. The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and denying criminal elements freedom of action in the region.