“Abducted Kebbi High Court Judge Regains Freedom After One Week In Captivity” — Police Say Ransom Was Demanded, Insist No Ransom Was Paid

Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court, who was abducted by suspected bandits from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area, has regained his freedom after spending one week in captivity.

A family member confirmed his release on Monday, saying the judge returned home safely a few hours earlier.

“We are in jubilation and full of gratitude to God for seeing our own return safely from captivity. He was just released and has returned home now after spending one week with the bandits,” the relative said.

The family expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State Judiciary, security agencies and the people of the state for their prayers, support and solidarity throughout the difficult period.

“We sincerely thank and appreciate the Kebbi State Judiciary, the security agencies, and the entire people of Kebbi State who contributed in different ways, offered prayers, and sent messages of sympathy. Your concern and support gave us strength, and we are grateful for your solidarity,” the family member added.

The source said details surrounding the judge’s release would be made public later.

Justice Bunza was abducted in the early hours of Sunday, July 26, 2026, shortly after returning from Sokoto to his residence in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

His abduction had sparked concern across the state and within the judiciary, with renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect judicial officers and other citizens.

Following the incident, the management of the Kebbi State High Court reportedly met with heads of security agencies in the state to strategise on measures aimed at securing his safe release.

Confirming the development, the Kebbi State Police Command said Justice Bunza regained his freedom on August 3.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, ANIPR, ANISMA, the command said the judge’s release had been confirmed by his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice.

According to the police, although the kidnappers demanded ransom while the judge was in captivity, the command maintained its position against the payment of ransom.

The command said security agencies had intensified efforts to track down those responsible for the abduction, adding that investigations were ongoing to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

It appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist the investigation, assuring that all information received would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

The police also appreciated residents and partner security agencies for their support and cooperation throughout the operation, while reaffirming the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Kebbi State.

The command urged residents with useful information to contact the Police Control Room through its designated emergency lines as investigations into the abduction continue.

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