In a shocking development that highlights the worsening security situation in Northern Nigeria, bandits have killed a kidnap victim after collecting a substantial ransom payment from his family.
Tragic Outcome Despite Ransom Payment
Mal Usman Buhari, who was abducted on Monday, September 29, 2025, along the Mokwa–New Bussa road in Borgu local council, has been confirmed dead despite his family paying a significant ransom for his release. The victim's death was announced on Friday, November 14, 2025, following brutal torture by his captors.
The tragic incident occurred despite the payment of N70 million in ransom money by the families of the kidnapped victims. Buhari was kidnapped alongside prominent figures including Barrister Ahmad Mohammed, Permanent Commissioner II of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), and Alhaji Alhassan Bawa Niworo, former Chairman of the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).
Family Connections and Government Silence
Buhari was the brother of Mal. Babangida Jibrin, a veteran journalist who has worked with DW Radio and Voice of America's Hausa Service. The devastating news of Buhari's death reached the family through an emissary who had delivered the ransom money to the kidnappers' den approximately one month after the abduction.
Disturbingly, neither the Niger State Government nor security agencies have issued any official statement regarding this tragic incident or the continued captivity of the remaining victims. The silence from authorities has raised concerns among residents about the effectiveness of security measures in the region.
Saraki Condemns Kwara State Terrorist Attack
In related security news, former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has strongly condemned the Tuesday terrorist attack on Eruku town in Kwara State's southern region. Saraki described the assault as both shocking and deeply distressing.
In a statement released early Wednesday, Saraki expressed great concern about the attack, noting that several residents sustained injuries while others were kidnapped. He emphasized that the violence had disrupted the typically peaceful atmosphere of the town and demanded immediate, decisive action from security authorities.
Saraki extended his sympathies to all victims and their families, praying for divine healing and restoration during this difficult period. He specifically called on the Federal Government and security agency heads to ensure the safe return of kidnapped victims and strengthen security protocols across Kwara State.
The former Senate President highlighted Kwara's strategic importance as a gateway between northern and southern Nigeria, arguing that this positioning warrants special security arrangements to protect national interests and maintain internal peace.
