Police confirm Maibarga death in captivity after abduction in Kebbi, as efforts continue to rescue other kidnapped victims in the region
The Kebbi State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Bashir Usman, confirmed on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, that Islamic cleric Alhaji Muhammad Maibarga, who was abducted by armed bandits in Koko-Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State, has died in captivity while being held by his abductors.
Also read: Shocking: Nigerian Islamic cleric allegedly offers ₦1m bounty, calls for beheading of Christian cleric in outrageous claim
SP Bashir Usman stated that the command was aware of emerging reports indicating the cleric’s deteriorating health and subsequent death while in custody.
The confirmation comes amid growing concern across affected communities following the incident, marking a grim development in the ongoing insecurity situation in the region and the Maibarga death in captivity case.
According to the police spokesperson, verification efforts are still ongoing to establish full details surrounding the circumstances of the cleric’s death.
Authorities also reiterated that operations are continuing to secure the release of other abducted victims in both Koko-Besse and Wasagu Local Government Areas.
Alhaji Muhammad Maibarga was reportedly kidnapped alongside a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Koko-Besse.
The abduction had not initially been made public but was later confirmed following media enquiries.
A distressing video that surfaced online earlier showed both elderly men pleading for assistance from captivity, describing severe illness and exhaustion after being forced to trek through forest terrain under harsh conditions.
The footage triggered widespread concern among residents and social media users, intensifying calls for urgent intervention.
Sources indicate that Maibarga later succumbed to illness while still in captivity. The development has deepened public anxiety over rising cases of kidnappings in rural parts of Kebbi State.
In his community, residents have since observed Salatul Gha’ib, the funeral prayer in absentia, for the late cleric, as his body remains unrecovered.
Also read: Islamic cleric Sheikh Gumi under fire after claiming govt knows terrorists by name and location
Maibarga death in captivity has further underscored fears over the safety of abducted victims still held by armed groups in the region.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
