Faruku Bunza, the kidnapped Judge in Kebbi State, has regained his freedom after spending one week in the custody of kidnappers, bringing relief to the Kebbi State judiciary, his family and residents following days of anxiety over his abduction.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed on Monday that Bunza, a judge of the Kebbi State High Court, was released earlier in the day after he was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area on July 26, 2026.
The command said the judge’s release was confirmed by his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice.
Bashir Usman, Police Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Police Command, said in a statement that although the kidnappers demanded a ransom during the period of captivity, the command maintained its policy against ransom payments.
He disclosed that security agencies had intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
“With the judge now released, the police and other security agencies have intensified investigative efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Read also: Kano eastern bypass maintenance will cut travel time, extend road lifespan – FERMA
“We urge members of the public to provide useful information that could assist in this regard. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality,” Usman said.
He commended residents and other security agencies for their cooperation throughout the judge’s captivity, assuring the public of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Kebbi State.
A member of Bunza’s family also confirmed that the judge had safely returned home a few hours before the report was filed.
“We are in jubilation and full of gratitude to Almighty God for bringing our own back home safely. He was released today and has returned home after spending one week in captivity,” the family member said.
The source expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State judiciary, security agencies, the state government, friends and residents who offered prayers, encouragement and support during the ordeal.
According to the family, details of Bunza’s release would be disclosed at a later time, and they declined to comment on how he regained his freedom.
The abduction of Bunza by suspected bandits last week triggered widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Kebbi State. The incident prompted members of the judiciary, legal practitioners and residents to demand stronger security measures to secure his release.
The case also highlighted the continuing threat of kidnapping and armed banditry across parts of Northwest Nigeria, where attacks on public officials and other prominent individuals have persisted despite ongoing security operations.
Bunza’s release is expected to ease tensions within the state’s judicial community while reinforcing calls for more decisive action against criminal groups operating in the region.
