Ex-Katsina vice chairman recounts 103-day experience in bandits’ den

The former Vice Chairman of Malumfashi Local Government Area in Katsina State, Nasiru Abdullahi Dayi, who was recently released by bandits after spending 103 days in captivity, has recounted his harrowing experience.

In an interview with Daily Trust in Katsina, the former vice chairman described life in the bandits’ den as horrific and terrifying.

Abdullahi was abducted on August 14, 2025, in his hometown of Dayi. A ransom of eight million naira was reportedly paid to secure his release. Following his freedom, he was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical evaluation.

Abdullahi narrated a particularly desperate moment when a woman and her daughter begged for his urine to quench their thirst.

He admitted that he also drank his own urine to survive under the scorching sun. He continues to recover from wounds he sustained during the ordeal.

Nasiru also recalled with dismay the moments when he and other captives were severely mistreated, beaten, and exposed to harsh weather conditions.

“There is what the bandits refer to as shayi. They often ask captives every morning, kasha shayi?—meaning, ‘did you take tea?’ This is a merciless beating and humiliation, especially for victims who stayed long without paying ransom.

“Let me add something here. You know, when they abducted me, I was dragged a long distance before we got to where they kept their motorcycles. I was terrified, terribly wounded, confused, and exhausted. When we got to their den, I was treated by a medical doctor who often comes there to offer services. I recall the doctor giving me injections and drugs,” he said.

Although weak and exhausted, Abdullahi has since been certified fit and free from diseases.

He further described the horrific conditions endured during captivity, including being chained by the hands and legs, beaten repeatedly, and left without food or water for days.

The former vice chairman also highlighted the level of coordination among the bandits.

“What will interest you more is the bandits’ coordination. They are well-organised, and to me, they are not illiterate. They are well exposed.

“In fact, I saw many graduates among them, and I can assure you that with a little push, they could abandon their evil mission because they, too, are exhausted,” he said.

On whether the bandits were Fulani or not, he explained that the group was a combination of many tribes—Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba—adding that the bandits were a typical representation of Nigeria, with almost every tribe present.

Abdullahi urged the authorities to strengthen efforts to engage bandit groups and communities, stressing that sustainable communication could help guarantee lasting peace.

He suggested a more comprehensive approach, with the government fully participating to ensure long-term stability.

While appreciating the government and people of Katsina State for their commitment, prayers, and support during his absence, Nasiru Abdullahi said words could not fully express his gratitude.

His wife, Bilkisu Yusuf, alongside friends and well-wishers, expressed profound appreciation for the prayers and support that contributed to his safe return.

“The situation was pathetic, but we thank God for the safe return of our loved one. We also thank friends and well-wishers for their prayers and encouragement. Security agencies and the government played their part,” she said.

Similarly, Nasiru’s son, Aminu, expressed delight over his father’s release, praying for an end to insecurity—not only in Katsina State but across Nigeria.

He added, “My father is a man of the people. Though he was absent, his community supported us. Today, we are happy and grateful.”

Locals called for a holistic approach to addressing banditry, including sustainable communication, reconciliation and empowerment programmes for affected households.

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