Niger State Governor Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago has confirmed the arrest of Abubakar Abba, the feared leader of the Mahmuda terrorist group, which has long terrorised Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State and parts of neighbouring Kwara State.
The dramatic arrest, carried out by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Wawa town, was achieved without a single gunshot being fired, according to Bologi Ibrahim, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bago.
“Yes, it is true. I can confirm that the leader of Mahmuda, one of the most dangerous terror groups in West Africa, Abubakar Abba, has been arrested by the DSS,” Ibrahim quoted the governor as saying. “This is a huge victory for us as a people and as a government, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves commendation for this encouraging news.”
Intelligence-Led Operation Ends Reign of Fear
Governor Bago revealed that Abba’s capture was the result of a carefully coordinated intelligence-led operation, reflecting a significant breakthrough in the fight against insurgency. He stressed that the development underlines President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to restoring national security.
The governor also hailed recent leadership changes in the security services—particularly within the DSS—describing them as pivotal to the success of high-stakes missions like this.
“It takes a tremendous degree of intelligence and competence to capture a high-profile terrorist like Abba without firing a single shot. Where there is a will, there is a way. Mr. President has consistently shown that willpower, which is why we are recording such successes,” he said.
Pledge to Sustain the Momentum
Bago assured that the Niger State government will continue to work hand-in-hand with the federal government and security agencies to dismantle terrorist networks and safeguard communities.
Abubakar Abba’s arrest marks a major blow to one of West Africa’s most notorious terror groups, potentially opening a path to greater stability in Niger State and beyond.
