How Abducted Kebbi Judge Regained Freedom — Family

The family of abducted Kebbi State High Court judge, Justice Faruku Bunza, has revealed details surrounding his release, disputing the claim by the Kebbi State Police Command that no ransom was paid to secure his freedom.

Justice Bunza regained his freedom after spending one week in captivity, returning home safely to the relief of his family, friends and well-wishers.

While the police maintained that the judge was released without any ransom payment, members of his family insisted that they paid ₦50 million, along with soft drinks and biscuits, before the kidnappers set him free.

A close family member said the police account did not reflect what actually happened, insisting that the family negotiated directly with the abductors to secure the judge’s release.

One of the judge’s relatives, Malam Faruku, confirmed that Justice Bunza returned home in good health after his release.

When journalists visited Bunza’s residence, family members, friends and supporters were seen gathering to celebrate his safe return and offer prayers for his continued protection.

A brother of the judge, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the family first saw Justice Bunza around 8 a.m. on Monday after he arrived in a commercial vehicle, confirming that he had been freed.

He disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦200 million before negotiations eventually reduced the amount to ₦50 million.

The incident has renewed concerns over the rising cases of kidnapping for ransom in parts of the country, with residents calling on security agencies to strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity and protect lives and property.