A coordinated rescue effort by the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes has led to the successful release of Alhaji Ndako Effagi, the last remaining victim of a recent kidnapping in Efagi village, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Alhaji Effagi was freed in the early hours of Friday following an intensive joint operation, marking the end of a terrifying ordeal that began around 1 a.m. when armed bandits stormed the village, firing shots and injuring a member of the local security team.
The operation had earlier led to the rescue of Nna’ama Effagi, Alhaji Effagi’s wife, who was freed shortly after the Nigerian Army was deployed to the scene.
The couple was kidnapped during the violent midnight attack on the quiet rural community, which is located within the Lafiagi Emirate. According to local sources, the bandits arrived under the cover of darkness and shot sporadically to scare residents before whisking the couple away.
A resident who spoke to the press confirmed the successful rescue of Alhaji Effagi, commending the efforts of both the Army and vigilante groups, whose joint operation he described as “timely and effective.”
“The husband has been rescued also by the Army and vigilantes,” the source said. “Their cooperation was key to the success of the operation.”
The release of both victims has been met with relief and celebration across the local community. Residents praised the swift intervention by security forces, which they believe has restored confidence in the fight against rural banditry in Kwara and neighbouring states.
The area has seen rising cases of kidnappings and attacks by armed groups, prompting the growing involvement of local vigilantes working alongside security agencies.
The Kwara State Government and traditional leaders in the area are yet to issue formal statements, but the development has already been described by locals as a “major breakthrough” in the ongoing battle against insecurity.
