Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga (rtd), former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has been released after spending 56 days in captivity.
General Tsiga was abducted on February 5, 2025, from his hometown Tsiga in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, alongside nine other residents
Despite his family paying a ransom, his captors held him for additional weeks before finally releasing him in the evenings of Wednesday.
There have been reports of conflicting figures regarding the ransom amount, with some claiming N60m was paid.
Tribune Online learnt from reliable sources that the actual sum was three times higher
A family member disclosed that after the payment, the kidnappers remained silent for a week before allowing Tsiga to speak with his family.
Although the abductors later demanded additional funds, no further payment was made, he told Tribune.
Tsiga was eventually freed and is reportedly in good condition. Sources indicated that he is being taken to Abuja from Zamfara.
A senior military source confirmed his release, and family members have expressed relief over his safe return.
“He is a philanthropist. He assists us all the time. We are happy, he is released.” Malama Binta Tsiga, a resident in Katsina said.
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