11
Hon. Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has regained his freedom after spending one week in the custody of his abductors.
A family member confirmed the judge’s release to journalists on Monday, saying he had 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 family member said.
The family also expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State Judiciary, security agencies and residents of the state for their support, prayers and solidarity during the judge’s ordeal.
“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 relative added.
According to the family, details surrounding the judge’s release would be made public at a later time.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kebbi State Judiciary nor the security agencies had issued an official statement confirming the development.
Justice Bunza was abducted last week, sparking widespread concern within the judiciary and prompting calls from legal practitioners and members of the public for his immediate and unconditional release.
The abduction of judicial officers has become a growing security concern in Nigeria, particularly in parts of the North affected by banditry and kidnapping.
In recent years, several judges and court officials have been targeted by armed groups, raising fears over the safety of judicial officers and the administration of justice.
The incidents have prompted repeated calls by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), judicial officers and other stakeholders for improved security around judges, court premises and official residences.
The kidnapping of Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza followed similar attacks on members of the Bench in recent years, including the abduction and subsequent release of Kaduna Upper Customary Court Judge, Janet Gimba, in 2024 after a tragic incident in which some of her family members lost their lives.
The recurring attacks have renewed concerns about the vulnerability of judicial officers and underscored the need for stronger security measures to protect those responsible for administering justice.
