Kidnappers Refuse to Release Abducted General Despite Ransom Payment

By Admin

Retired Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga, who was kidnapped alongside nine others on February 5 in Tsiga town, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, remains in captivity 40 days after his abduction, despite the payment of a substantial ransom.

Tsiga, a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was taken by armed men who later demanded N250 million for his release.

A family source, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that a “huge sum” was paid to the kidnappers, yet they have failed to release the retired general.

“For reasons I cannot disclose, I won’t reveal the amount paid or their demands, but I assure you it was a significant sum. Unfortunately, they have not honored their part of the agreement,” the source said.

According to the source, after a week of silence following the ransom payment, the kidnappers reestablished contact and allowed Tsiga to speak with his family. However, they have since increased their demands, insisting on additional payments before his release.

It is believed that the general has been relocated to a different hideout, further complicating efforts to secure his freedom.

Meanwhile, both the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Katsina Elders Forum (KEF) have urged the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Tsiga and other captives unharmed.

The Nigerian military and relevant authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the latest developments.