Hon. Nura Umar was reportedly abducted by suspected gunmen in an attack that occurred in the early hours. The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and political stakeholders in Zamfara.
Speaking with journalists on the matter, Bakauye said the continued attacks on government officials and ordinary citizens are raising public anxiety and eroding confidence in the ability of authorities to protect lives and property.
According to him, the abduction of a sitting local government chairman is not just an attack on an individual, but an attack on governance and the democratic structure at the grassroots. He noted that when those elected to serve communities can no longer move freely or are not safe in their own local governments, then the security situation has reached a critical point.
Bakauye called on the Federal Government, the Zamfara State Government, and all relevant security agencies to treat the matter with the urgency it deserves. He urged them to intensify rescue efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of Hon. Nura Umar.
He also demanded that those responsible for the abduction be tracked down and made to face the full wrath of the law. In his words, acts of banditry and kidnapping must no longer be treated as routine, but as serious crimes that require decisive response.
The PDP candidate further extended his condolences to the families of the security personnel and other persons who lost their lives during the attack. He prayed that Allah grant them eternal rest and forgive their shortcomings.
He also prayed for quick recovery for those who sustained injuries in the incident, and asked Allah to give their families the strength to bear the painful loss.
Bakauye stressed that there is a need for a united front that brings together government at all levels, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders.
He explained that lasting peace will only be achieved when communities are involved in intelligence gathering, when security operatives are properly equipped and motivated, and when there is political will to confront those sponsoring and benefiting from criminal activities.
Shehu Bakauye noted that Zamfara people have suffered for too long from attacks, kidnappings, and displacement. He said it is time for all leaders to put politics aside and work together to restore peace and stability across the state.
He added that any government that fails to prioritize the safety of its people has failed in its primary responsibility. He urged authorities to deploy more personnel, improve surveillance, and provide support to communities that are most vulnerable to attacks.
Residents of Bungudu and other parts of Zamfara have continued to call for increased patrols and better coordination among security agencies following the latest abduction.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies on efforts being made to rescue the abducted chairman.
The incident adds to a growing list of high-profile kidnappings in Zamfara in recent months, further highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive security strategy in the state.
