The Nigeria Police Force has officially handed over the two rescued daughters of Honorable Aminu Ardo, a member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly who was kidnapped sometime in November 2022 after armed bandits, invaded his residence and abducted his wife, Hauwa’u, and their four young children: Maryam, Nana Asma'u, Ummul Khairi, and Abdulrazaq.
The rescue operation, according to the Deputy Force PRO, CSP Isuku Victor a collaborative effort involving multiple security agencies and coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), underscores the renewed focus on security reforms in Nigeria.
Also, the successful rescue operation is a direct result of these strategic initiatives stemming from leveraging advanced intelligence from Force Intelligence Department and operational tactics from the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Katsina Command as well as tactical support from the Nigerian Airforce 215 FOB, Funtua, which led to locating and safe rescue of these minors.
He said the crime of kidnapping, especially when it involves innocent children, strikes at the very heart of our humanity and society. It is a gross violation of human rights and a traumatic experience for the victims and their families.
"Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, there has been a robust focus on security reforms aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of the country’s security architecture." he stressed
He said the NPF remain acutely aware of the ongoing challenges in the fight against kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes.
"Let me emphasize that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, is more determined than ever, to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes head-on.
"Our zeal is evident in our relentless pursuit of criminals, our strategic deployment of resources, and our commitment to adopting the latest technologies and intelligence-gathering methods. We are resolute in our quest to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that justice is served leveraging on the dedication of our officers and intelligence sharing and synergy between the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies as well as timely support from the community."he said
He expressed deepest sympathies to the families affected by these crimes and assurances that their pain is NPF pain.
"Your resilience in the face of such adversity inspires us to intensify our efforts. We stand with you, and we will continue to fight tirelessly to ensure that no child, no mother, no father, no family has to endure such horrors again.
"We wish to assure the citizenry that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, in full collaboration with other law enforcement and security agencies, will not relent in its efforts to provide a safe and secure environment for all. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that every citizen, especially our children, can live without violence, and the fear of being victims of such crimes
"We also wish to, most importantly, acknowledge and appreciate the leadership and coordinating role of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), for its strategic support that led to the success of this operation amongst many others.
"Together, we will overcome this menace and restore peace and security to our beloved country."
VICTIMS ORDEAL
In November 2022, the quiet village of Jangebe in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State, was shattered by an act of violence that would forever change the lives of one family. Armed bandits, riding over 60 motorcycles, invaded the residence of Honorable Aminu Ardo, a member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly.
In a brutal display of terror, they abducted his wife, Hauwa’u, and their four young children: Maryam, Nana Asma'u, Ummul Khairi, and Abdulrazaq.
The abductees were taken to an unknown forest in Katsina State, enduring a harrowing journey by foot and motorcycle; throughout their captivity, these children were sustained on meagre rations of maize and salt, drinking water from a nearby stream.
While in captivity, Hauwa’u gave birth under extremely harsh conditions, but tragically, the newborn did not survive. Despite the unbearable circumstances, Hauwa’u’s strength and resolve remained unbroken.
One night, during the rainy season of 2023, she managed to unchain herself and escape with two of her children, Ummul Khairi and Abdulrazaq. However, Maryam and Nana Asma'u were left behind, still in the grip of their captors.