After three harrowing weeks in captivity, a Katsina-based businessman, Anas Ahmadu, along with his seven-month pregnant wife, Halimatu, and their two-year-old daughter, have been released. The family regained their freedom on Wednesday night, September 17, following the payment of a ₦50 million ransom to their abductors.
Abduction and Negotiation
The family was kidnapped on August 26, 2025, from their home in the Filin Canada Quarters of Katsina metropolis. The assailants, who were reported to be armed gunmen, had initially killed a local vigilante before abducting the family.
Negotiations for their release began with an initial demand of ₦600 million. Through a series of discussions, the kidnappers reduced the ransom to ₦100 million on September 3, before finally accepting the ₦50 million paid by the family.
A relative confirmed the news to Daily Trust, stating, “Alhamdulillah! Anas, Halimatu, and their daughter have been released by their captors tonight. They are on their way home. But a ransom of N50 million was paid to the assailants.” The relative added that the exact location of the family’s pickup remains undisclosed for security reasons.
Police Response
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the release of the family. The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, stated, “I can confirm they are free, but I am yet to be fully briefed on the situation.”
The case highlights the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s northwest region, where armed groups often engage in abductions for ransom. The outcome of this case brings relief to the family and residents but also underscores the persistent threat of banditry in the area.
Source: African Publicity
