The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed claims that military generals solely raised funds to secure the release of retired Brigadier General Mahrazu Tsiga who was held captive for 56 days.
Director of defence information Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Monday, countered assertions by retired Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi, who claimed to have coordinated the fundraising efforts.
In a viral statement, Abdullahi detailed how he and Major General LB Bunza organised a fundraising effort via a WhatsApp platform named “TSIGA PLATFORM.”
Abdullahi explained that the platform was used to gather donations from over 300 members, including serving and retired military officers, after kidnappers demanded a ransom of N400 million.
According to Abdullahi, the funds were deposited into Tsiga’s bank account, managed by his son, and contributed to his eventual release.
While Abdullahi did not disclose the exact amount raised or the payment details, he asserted that their efforts “yielded a very positive outcome,” suggesting the ransom facilitated Tsiga’s freedom last week.
In response, Gusau acknowledged the kidnapping of the former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) director general on February 6 in Kafur District, Katsina State. However, he emphasised the military’s extensive search-and-rescue operations as the pivotal effort leading to Tsiga’s release.
“Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, alongside the Air Component, immediately launched operations to locate and rescue the abducted general,” Gusau stated. He detailed military efforts, including airstrikes and ground assaults in multiple locations across Katsina and Zamfara states, which disrupted bandit activities and pressured the kidnappers to release captives.
According to Gusau, the military’s operations were relentless. Troops combed hideouts in Kankara, Faskari, and Tsafe local government areas and conducted strikes on suspected bandit strongholds. Several terrorists were neutralised, and over 84 kidnapped victims were rescued during these operations. A notable rescue included Barau Garba, a teacher held captive with Tsiga, who has since been reunited with his family.
Gusau added that airstrikes at Dunya Hill disrupted the kidnappers, though Tsiga’s health challenges prevented his escape. “Troops worked tirelessly, often at great personal risk, to ensure General Tsiga’s safe return,” Gusau stated, underscoring the military’s sacrifices.
The Defence Headquarters criticised narratives that downplay the military’s efforts, labelling them as “acts of mischief” aimed at undermining ongoing anti-terrorism operations in the North West. Gusau urged the public to support the military by providing credible intelligence and recognising their sacrifices in combating criminal elements.
While the DHQ acknowledged the fundraising initiative, Gusau reiterated that military operations, combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, were crucial in ensuring Tsiga’s freedom. “The life of General Tsiga was invaluable, and all efforts were adopted to guarantee a successful rescue mission,” he said.
