Police Rescue Man Chained for 17 Years by Father

Authorities in Bauchi State have rescued a man who was allegedly held in chains by his father for nearly two decades in Shadawanka village, Bauchi Local Government Area.

The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed that Muhammad Lawan, also known as Babangida, was freed on Sunday, February 16, 2026, after a concerned resident alerted the authorities to his situation.

Police officers, led by the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division and accompanied by the state police spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, visited the family home. They found the victim in an emaciated state and immediately took him into protective custody.

The victim’s father, Mohammed Lawan, has been arrested and is now in police custody. Muhammad Lawan is receiving medical care and rehabilitation.

Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu has ordered a preliminary investigation and directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a full inquiry into the alleged abuse.

Authorities have said they will release additional information as the investigation continues.