A lecturer with the Nigerian Army University Biu in Borno State, Abubakar Mohammed El-Jummah, has reportedly died while being held by Boko Haram fighters.
themomentng reports that his death comes almost one year after he was abducted along the Damaturu–Biu Road.
According to Sahara Reporters, the professor was taken on March 2, 2025, while travelling on the Damaturu–Biu highway, a road known for repeated attacks and kidnappings in the North-East.
Since his abduction, there had been growing concern about his safety as efforts to secure his release did not succeed.
His family confirmed his death on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
They said he passed away around 2:45am after falling ill.
According to them, the illness was linked to the harsh treatment and suffering he faced during his time in captivity.
The family also disclosed that he had been buried according to Islamic rites.
They announced that a funeral prayer in absentia would take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 2pm at the Ngomari Old Airport Juma’at Mosque in Maiduguri, behind his residence.
Friends, colleagues and sympathisers were invited to join in prayers for the late academic.
His death comes amid renewed violence in Borno State.
Recall that Boko Haram fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province attacked a military base in Jakana, Kaga Local Government Area.
According to reports, the attackers stormed the area in large numbers, shooting and later using explosives on the military facility.
Several soldiers were said to have been killed during the assault, while others reportedly fled into nearby bushes.
The bodies of the fallen soldiers were moved to the 7 Division Military Hospital in Maiduguri.
Military equipment, including armoured vehicles, was burnt, and weapons were taken away during the raid.
