Abducted Kebbi judge regains freedom after one week

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has regained his freedom after spending one week in the custody of his abductors, bringing an end to a tense period that sparked widespread concern within the state’s judiciary and beyond.

The judge was abducted in the early hours of Sunday, July 26, 2026, shortly after arriving at his residence in Bunza Local Government Area from Sokoto State. Gunmen reportedly intercepted him outside his home and whisked him away to an unknown destination, triggering a coordinated search by security agencies.

Confirming the development on Monday, the Kebbi State Police Command said Justice Bunza was released safely and has since reunited with his family.

The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, disclosed that the judge regained his freedom after sustained security pressure mounted on the abductors during the period of captivity.

According to him, although the kidnappers established contact with the family and demanded ransom, no payment was made before the judge was released.

“The victim has regained his freedom and reunited with his family. No ransom was paid despite the demands made by the abductors,” the police spokesman stated.

Abubakar commended security personnel involved in the operation and appreciated residents of the state for providing useful information and cooperating with law enforcement agencies throughout the search efforts.

A member of the judge’s family also confirmed his safe return, expressing gratitude to God and everyone who supported the family during the ordeal. The source, however, declined to disclose the circumstances surrounding the judge’s release.

Justice Bunza’s abduction had generated widespread condemnation from members of the legal profession and the public, with concerns raised over the growing insecurity affecting judicial officers and other public officials in parts of the country.

Legal practitioners had called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the judge’s release while urging government at all levels to strengthen security around courts and judicial officers.

The incident also renewed concerns over the persistent threat of kidnapping across the North-West, where criminal gangs have continued to target commuters, traditional rulers, public servants and residents despite ongoing military and police operations.

Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command has assured that investigations are ongoing to identify, track and arrest those behind the abduction.

The command reiterated its commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information that would aid security operations.

Justice Bunza is said to be in stable condition and is expected to undergo medical evaluation following his release after the week-long captivity.