Military Debunks Claims of Ransom Payment in Rescue of Ex-NYSC DG Tsiga

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted reports suggesting that retired military generals and civilians contributed funds to secure the release of Brigadier General Mahrazu Tsiga (rtd.), former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who was abducted in Katsina State and held captive for 56 days.

In a statement issued Monday in Abuja, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, stated that General Tsiga’s rescue was the result of sustained military operations, both kinetic and non-kinetic, conducted by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.

“His life is invaluable and anything that needed to be done to ensure he was safe was adopted in ensuring a successful Search and Rescue effort,” Gusau said.

Background to the Abduction
General Tsiga was abducted in the early hours of February 6, 2025, in Tsiga, Kafur District of Bakori Local Government Area, Katsina State. Troops from the 17 Brigade were immediately deployed and launched a coordinated operation, supported by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma.

The military combed bandit hideouts in Jeka, Areda, Zango (Kankara LGA) and extended the operation to Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, Matallawa, and Bakkai (Faskari LGA). Though initial operations did not lead to direct contact with the abductors, the pressure forced the criminals to abandon some captives and rustled animals during their retreat.

Efforts and Operations Detailed
Between February 6 and 8, the military leveraged credible intelligence to attack hideouts in Yankuzo and Gidan Dankaka (Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State), believed to be linked to notorious terrorist kingpin Ado Aliero. Though Tsiga was not found, these efforts disrupted the terrorists’ network.

Further airstrikes on Dunya Hill, another suspected stronghold, led to the escape of several captives. Unfortunately, General Tsiga, due to health concerns, could not escape. However, another victim, Barau Garba, a teacher at Government Secondary School Tsiga, was rescued and reunited with his family. He later recounted his experience in a video released by the military.

In a separate operation, troops raided Pauwa Hills and Matallawa in Kankara LGA, rescuing 84 kidnapped victims, although Tsiga was not among them. Several terrorists were neutralized, and three soldiers sustained injuries.

Response to Misleading Reports
The DHQ described as “misleading” and “presumptively mischievous” an article authored by Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi, which claimed that private contributions secured Tsiga’s release.

“The publication contradicts the facts and undermines the immense sacrifices made by our troops, who operated under challenging terrain and great personal risk,” the statement read.

Gusau emphasized that General Tsiga’s freedom was entirely the result of military-led Search and Rescue operations and not a product of any ransom or financial intervention by individuals.

Call for Public Support
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to peace and national security and encouraged the public to support military operations by providing credible intelligence.

“Troops will continue to support all efforts to ensure peace and security across the country,” the statement concluded.