A Zamfara man, Isihaka Isau, has reportedly remained in captivity after bandits allegedly collected ₦2.5 million in ransom from his family following his abduction along the Birnin Gwari Road in Kaduna State.

Isihaka, an indigene of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, had reportedly travelled in search of work so he could support his wife, children, parents and other members of his family.

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According to security analyst Bakatsine, Isihaka was abducted while travelling along the Birnin Gwari route in Kaduna State.

“This is Isihaka (Isau), an indigene of Maru LGA, Zamfara State, who left home to seek a living and provide for his wife, children, parents and other family members,” Bakatsine said.

The family and friends reportedly struggled to raise the ransom demanded by the kidnappers before paying ₦2.5 million.

However, the payment has allegedly failed to secure Isihaka’s release.

“Sadly, he was kidnapped by bandits along the Birnin Gwari road in Kaduna State. His family and friends struggled to raise N2.5m, which was paid as ransom, but his captors have still refused to release him,” Bakatsine said.

Isihaka has reportedly spent several additional days in captivity since the ransom was paid, leaving his family deeply concerned about his safety.

Bakatsine also shared a photograph said to show Isihaka with another suspected victim of the same criminal group.

The image appeared to show the two men seated in a forest, while one of the men appeared to have chains around his ankles.

The development highlights the continuing danger faced by travellers along parts of the Birnin Gwari corridor, where kidnapping and armed attacks have remained persistent security concerns.

For Isihaka’s family, the immediate concern is his safe return. The reported payment of the ransom has added to their distress, as they are now appealing for prayers and urgent assistance while he remains in captivity.

The allegations have not been independently verified by the police or other security agencies in the available report, and no statement from the alleged kidnappers has been reported.

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The case also underscores the painful dilemma faced by families of kidnapping victims, who can struggle to raise demanded ransoms only to remain uncertain about whether payment will guarantee their relatives’ release.