Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago of Niger State has confirmed the arrest of Abubakar Abba, leader of the notorious Mahmuda terrorist organisation.
Abba, who until his capture headed the dreaded group operating in Borgu Local Council of Niger State and parts of Kwara State, was apprehended by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Wawa town.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the governor’s spokesperson, Bologi Ibrahim, said the operation was carried out without a single shot being fired.
“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.
According to Bago, the breakthrough was achieved through an intelligence-led operation.
“This is a huge victory for us as a people and as a government. President Tinubu deserves commendation for this cheering news. Abba’s arrest demonstrates the President’s commitment to ending insecurity and promoting the well-being of Nigerians,” he stated.
The governor also commended recent federal appointments in the security sector, particularly in the DSS, noting that they have strengthened counter-terrorism efforts.
“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 always a way. Mr. President has consistently shown that will-power, which is why we are recording such successes,” Bago said.
He reaffirmed Niger State’s commitment to working with the Federal Government and security agencies to eradicate terrorism across the country.
