Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has regained his freedom after spending eight days in captivity following his abduction by suspected kidnappers.
The judge was kidnapped in the early hours of July 26, 2026, from his residence along Zogirma Road shortly after returning from a trip to Sokoto. His abductors reportedly demanded a ₦200 million ransom for his release.
Speaking in a telephone interview, the judge’s younger brother, Malam Shehu Yusuf, confirmed that Justice Bunza regained his freedom in the early hours of Monday and returned to his residence in Bunza Local Government Area at about 8 a.m. in a commercial vehicle.
“We saw him come out of a commercial vehicle and walk straight to his house in Bunza,” Yusuf said.
According to him, family members, neighbours and well-wishers gathered at the residence to welcome the judge after his return.
Yusuf disclosed that while Justice Bunza was receiving visitors, security personnel arrived and took him to a hospital for medical examination before promising to return him home later.
“They told us they would bring him back home in the evening, but we are still waiting for his return,” he added.
Responding to reports that ransom was paid, Yusuf insisted that the family did not pay any money to secure the judge’s freedom.
However, there were unconfirmed reports alleging that ₦50 million was paid to the kidnappers before his release.
The judge’s brother said Justice Bunza appeared to be in good health and was able to recognise relatives and visitors who came to welcome him.
He also praised what he described as the efforts of “unsung heroes” who contributed to securing the judge’s release.
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command has assured residents that those responsible for the abduction will be arrested and prosecuted.
The command’s spokesperson, Bashir Usman, said security operatives are already working to track down the kidnappers and bring them to justice.
