Security tensions deepen in Adamawa as suspected terrorists abduct six in Fintiri’s hometown

Suspected terrorists have struck Madagali, the hometown of Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, in a brazen early-morning attack that has heightened concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the state.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at Gare Village in the Pallam District of Madagali Local Government Area, where the assailants reportedly abducted six members of a family and made away with livestock belonging to residents.

The incident came at a particularly sensitive time, as Governor Fintiri had just commenced a tour of Adamawa’s 21 local government areas aimed at assessing security challenges and engaging communities on ways to improve safety across the state.

Confirming the incident, the Adamawa State Police Command said it had launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation to secure the release of the abducted victims.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Suleiman Nguroje, disclosed details of the attack in a statement.

“The Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed an attack on Gare Village, Pallam District, Madagali Local Government Area, in the early hours of today by suspected terrorists, which led to the abduction of six family members and the rustling of livestock,” Nguroje said.

He added that security agencies swiftly mobilised following the report, deploying additional personnel and resources to the affected area and surrounding communities.

“Upon receipt of the report, the Command immediately intensified collaboration and deployed additional personnel and operational assets in a joint operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, troops of the 144 Battalion, and the Civilian Joint Task Force,” he explained.

With the attack taking place in the governor’s native area, pressure has mounted on security agencies to secure quick results. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Dankombo Morris, has reportedly ordered sustained operations until the abducted persons are rescued.

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“The Commissioner of Police has directed sustained search-and-rescue operations, reinforced patrols, and a strengthened security presence across Madagali and other border communities to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims and to prevent further threats,” Nguroje said.

The police command also reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Adamawa State, stressing that security agencies remain resolute in confronting criminal activities.

“The command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other sister security agencies, remains fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state. Further updates will be communicated,” the spokesperson added.

The Madagali abduction is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have unsettled Adamawa in recent months. In Hong Local Government Area, a recent attack reportedly left 12 residents dead and several houses destroyed.

Earlier this year in Lamurde Local Government Area, a communal clash between the Bachama and Chobo communities claimed more than 20 lives.