The Zamfara State Government has secured the release of 18 students of the College of Agricultural and Animal Sciences Bakura, abducted by gunmen recently.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the assailants had on August 16, 2021, abducted students and staff of the College in Bakura Local Government Area of the state.

Presenting the released abductees to Gov. Bello Matawalle, at the Government House, Gusau, on Friday, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr Ayuba Elkana, said the victims were rescued through dialogue initiated by the state government.

“We may recall that the students were abducted and kept with the bandits 12 days ago.

“They were rescued through the peace dialogue initiated by Governor Bello Matawalle, without paying any kobo as ransom.

“I am happy to hand over the released students and staff to his Excellency, the governor, today, “the Commissioner said.

Elkana commended all stakeholders who assisted in the rescue of the students.

Responding, Gov Bello Matawalle commended the state peace and reconciliation committee for achieving success.

“We thank Allah the almighty, for having this staff and students back.

“As we all know, my administration initiated peace and reconciliation with the bandits as part of the measures to address security challenges facing the state.

“We used the dialogue through the repentant bandits and rescued this staff and students”, he explained.

He said the released abductees will undergo medical checkups before they are handed over to their families.

NAN