Troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Hadin Kai, have successfully rescued a serving councillor and an Islamic cleric abducted along the Buni Gari–Buratai road in Borno State. Security forces are continuing their search for five other captives still held by the assailants.

The rescued victims have been identified as Alhaji Mohammed Ali Ma’ikachi, councillor representing Zera/Wuyep Ward in Biu Local Government Area, and Mallam Aliyu Yusuf, a respected Islamic scholar and Chairman of Shuaaraul Islam, Borno State.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the rescue followed a swift search-and-rescue operation by troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade, in collaboration with the 135 Special Forces Battalion and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). The operation commenced at approximately 7:35 a.m. on Wednesday, hours after seven civilians were kidnapped the previous evening while traveling the volatile route.

A military source revealed that sustained troop movements pressured the terrorists, forcing them to abandon two captives. The victims were found around Mangari village at about 11:35 a.m. on Wednesday.

In a video following their release, Councillor Ma’ikachi expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army, attributing their rescue to divine intervention and the troops’ swift response. Similarly, Mallam Aliyu Yusuf commended the military for the timely and courageous operation.

The army has intensified efforts to track down the fleeing terrorists and secure the release of the remaining five abducted civilians.