Tragedy struck the serene community of Zalau village in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State on the late hours of Saturday, November 22, 2025, when gunmen suspected to be kidnappers attacked the residence of a prominent Islamic cleric, Alhaji Muhammad Bakoshi.
Alhaji Bakoshi, who served as the Discipline Officer of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Zalau, was reportedly killed during the raid.
The attackers also abducted his wife, who had given birth just two weeks earlier, and their daughter, who remain in the hands of the kidnappers at the time of this report.
Residents of Zalau expressed profound grief and fear following the violent incident, highlighting the pervasive insecurity in the area.
One villager, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “the entire community is praying for the safe return of the cleric’s family and strength for them to withstand this difficult time.”
He emphasised that the threat of banditry and kidnappings transcends religious lines, noting, “Bandits and kidnappers in Nigeria do not target only Christians.
”These criminals go after anyone they see as vulnerable, regardless of religion.
”Let’s focus on safety and unity, and we should not divide ourselves by faith.”
The attack has sparked widespread concern over the safety of vulnerable individuals in the community, particularly those with prominent social or religious roles.
As of the time of reporting, the Bauchi State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.
Security sources indicated that local authorities and law enforcement are reportedly assessing the situation and may launch operations to track the perpetrators and secure the safe release of the abducted family members.
The killing of Alhaji Bakoshi marks another grim reminder of the persistent threat of banditry and kidnappings in parts of northern Nigeria, where armed groups continue to exploit gaps in security, leaving communities exposed to violence and terror.
Residents are calling on both state and federal authorities to intensify security measures in vulnerable villages, stressing the urgent need for proactive protection of citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
This incident added to the growing list of attacks targeting clergy, educators, and community leaders in northern Nigeria, highlighting the critical challenge facing security agencies in curbing criminal activities and safeguarding civilians.
