Five Islamic clerics abducted after prayer for Tinubu’s re-election in Zamfara

Five Islamic clerics have reportedly been abducted by suspected terrorists shortly after attending a special prayer for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election at the residence of former Zamfara State Governor and serving Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari.

The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in Talata Mafara, where about 1,000 Islamic scholars gathered to pray for Tinubu’s victory in the 2027 presidential election.

Yari, who is the Director General of the Tinubu 2027 Presidential Campaign, hosted the gathering at his residence.

According to a report by SaharaReporters, the clerics travelled from communities in Bakura and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas to attend the prayer before they were allegedly abducted.

The reported victims are Imam Yahuza, the First Jumma’at Imam of Dogon Madacci; Magawata Abdullahi, the Second Jumma’at Imam of Dogon Madacci; Malam Shehu Dakko; Imam Bala Fagon; and Na’ibi Tasi’u of Tungar Nagudai.

The identities of the abductors and the whereabouts of the clerics remained unknown as of the time of filing this report.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the security situation in Zamfara, particularly as the reported abduction occurred in connection with a high-profile political gathering.

No security agency had publicly confirmed the incident as of press time.

The Zamfara State Police Public Relations Officer, Yezid Abubakar, was also reportedly yet to respond to calls and messages seeking comment.

The abduction came a day after the Department of State Services alerted religious leaders in Osun State to alleged terrorist plots targeting places of worship ahead of the 2027 elections.

Zamfara remains one of the North-West states most affected by banditry and kidnapping, with religious leaders, traditional rulers and travellers frequently targeted.