The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has declared 19 high-profile terrorists wanted for orchestrating a series of deadly attacks across Katsina, Zamfara, and parts of Sokoto State, including communities within the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The development, announced on Monday, marks one of the most extensive manhunts launched by the Nigerian military, aimed at dismantling entrenched terror networks responsible for mass killings, kidnappings, and the destabilisation of rural communities in the North-West.
According to the DHQ, a cash reward of N5 million has been approved for any individual who provides credible information leading to the arrest of any of the wanted persons.
The announcement also includes a dedicated hotline — 0913 590 4467 — for citizens to report sightings or intelligence that can assist ongoing military operations.
List of the 19 Declared Terrorists
The Defence Headquarters published the identities and origins of the suspects as follows:
- Sani Dangote – Dumbarum Village, Zurmi LGA, Zamfara State
- Bello Turji Gudda – Fakai Village, Zamfara State
- Leko – Mozoj Village, Mutazu LGA, Katsina State
- Dogo Nahali – Yar Tsamiyar JNO Village, Kankara LGA, Katsina State
- Halilu Sububu – Sububu Village, Maradun LGA, Zamfara State
- Nagona – Angwan Galadima, Isa LGA, Sokoto State
- Nasanda – Kwashabawa Village, Zurmi LGA, Zamfara State
- Isiya Kwashen Garwa – Kamfanin Daudawa Village, Faskari LGA, Katsina State
- Ali Kachalla (Ali Kawaje) – Kuyambara Village, Danadau, Maru LGA, Zamfara State
- Abu Radde – Varanda Village, Batsari LGA, Katsina State
- Dan-Da – Varanda Village, Batsari LGA, Katsina State
- Sani Gurgu – Varanda Village, Batsari LGA, Katsina State
- Umaru Dan Nigeria – Rafi Village, Mada District, Gusau LGA
- Nagala – Maru LGA, Zamfara State
- Alhaji Ado Aleru – Yankuzo Village, Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State
- Monore – Yantumaki Village, Danmusa LGA, Katsina State
- Gwaska Dankarami – Shamushele Village, Zurmi LGA, Zamfara State
- Baleri – Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State
- Mamudu Tainange – Varanda Village, Batsari LGA, Katsina State
Several intelligence sources described the wanted suspects as part of coordinated jihadist-leaning terror cells responsible for widespread destruction across the North-West.
Background: Ado Aleru Among Those Listed
One of the most notable names on the list is Ado Aleru, a notorious bandit leader who gained national attention after being controversially turbaned as Sarkin Fulani of Yandoto Emirate in Zamfara State in 2022.
His inclusion signals a renewed military commitment to dismantling the command hierarchy of armed gangs that have long operated with impunity.
Military Calls for Public Collaboration
The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians, especially residents of affected states, to remain vigilant and support security operations.
The DHQ emphasised that collaborative intelligence, reporting movements, hideouts, collaborators, and supply routes — remains critical to restoring stability in rural communities severely affected by banditry and terrorist activities.
The bounty system, officials said, is designed to enhance citizen participation in security efforts as the armed forces step up counterterrorism operations across the region.
Security Implications
The declaration of the 19 suspects marks a strategic escalation in the war against terrorism and banditry.
Communities in Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto have suffered years of coordinated attacks, including mass abductions of schoolchildren, killings, cattle rustling, arson, and forced displacement.
Analysts believe the move could significantly disrupt terror networks if the public collaborates effectively with security agencies.
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