Ambassador Bashir Isa Gusau, the North-West Youth Leader of the Tinubu/Shettima campaign organisation in Zamfara State, has been abducted by gunmen suspected to be bandits, the police were notified and efforts are ongoing to locate him, security analysts said.
Kidnapping and banditry remain persistent security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, including Zamfara State. Ghastly attacks and abductions have been reported in rural and urban areas in the region despite government and security efforts to curb criminal activity.
Gusau’s role involved youth mobilisation and political support for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s campaign, particularly across the North-West geopolitical zone. His position made him a notable figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress’ grassroots mobilisation efforts.
According to a post shared on X by security analyst Bakatsine, the abduction occurred on Thursday when more than 30-armed men stormed Gusau’s residence in Gusau town, the state capital, and forcefully took him away in front of his wife.
Security agencies were immediately notified of the incident, and efforts to locate and rescue Gusau are ongoing, but as of the latest reports, there has been no confirmed recovery or official statement from security authorities.
The assault reportedly inflicted distress on the victim’s family, and the scale of the armed group involved highlighted the severity of banditry challenges in the state. Observers questioned the continuing prevalence of violent attacks and abductions in the region.
No official ransom demand has been made public, and the motive for the abduction remains under investigation by relevant security agencies.
The kidnapping of a high-profile political campaign leader underscores the persistent security risks in Zamfara State and surrounding areas. Such incidents can heighten public anxiety and raise concerns about the safety of political actors and citizens amid heightened political activity.
The abduction may also prompt increased security responses from state and federal agencies, as authorities face pressure to address banditry and protect individuals engaging in lawful political participation.
Continued kidnappings and violent crime have broader implications for governance, public confidence, and economic activity in affected regions.
Ambassador Bashir Isa Gusau, North-West Youth Leader of the Tinubu/Shettima campaign organisation in Zamfara State, was abducted by suspected bandits at his home in Gusau.
Security agencies have been alerted and efforts to rescue him are ongoing. The incident highlights the enduring security challenges that continue to affect public safety in the region
