By RismadarVoice Media,December 11, 2025
Zamfara State has been plunged into mourning, following the death of Hon. Mu’azu Zannan Gwashi, a political leader and community activist, who was killed in captivity by armed bandits.
The incident occurred after part of his ransom was paid.
The attack took place on July 22, 2025, when bandits ambushed the vehicle of Hon. Muhammad Sala Wuta, Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, along the Manyaci–Bukkuyum road.
During the assault, the PDP chairman was shot, three individuals, including Gwashi, were abducted.
Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦30 million, claiming it would take about five months to release Gwashi.
Negotiations later led to a temporary reduction to ₦15 million, which was delivered.
However, the captors refused his release, insisting the remaining ₦15 million be paid.
According to Katsina-based security analyst, Malam Bakatsine, the kidnappers repeatedly shifted their demands:
“months after Hon. Mu’azu Gwashi was abducted, kidnappers repeatedly shifted their ransom demands, first ₦30M, then ₦15M, then back to ₦30M even after collecting the first payment of ₦15M.
Yesterday evening, his community confirms he has died in captivity. A tragic end to a long ordeal.”
Residents and social media users have expressed shock and grief over Gwashi’s death.
Mohammed Ni’imatullah wrote on Facebook:
“Innalillahi wa’inailaihim raju’un Allah yajikan Hon Mu’azu Muhammad Gwashi.”
Local news outlet Idon Mikiya (Eagle Eye) also posted:
Zamfara State has faced persistent insecurity, with armed groups frequently targeting highways and rural areas, including Bukkuyum, Gusau, Maradun, and Shinkafi.
Both public officials, private citizens have fallen victim to kidnappings, often accompanied by ransom extortion.
Government security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, the military, have conducted operations to combat banditry, yet attacks continue to be reported across the state.
This latest incident underscores the growing threat of armed groups in the region and the urgent need for strengthened security measures to protect residents and political figures alike.
