Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has regained his freedom after spending one week in captivity following his abduction by suspected kidnappers. The judge returned home safely on Monday, bringing relief to his family, colleagues and residents of the state who had expressed concern over his disappearance. Police authorities confirmed that although the abductors demanded a ransom, no payment was made before his release.

The judge was abducted from his residence about a week ago, prompting widespread condemnation and a coordinated security response. His disappearance raised fresh concerns over the safety of judicial officers and the growing threat of kidnapping in parts of northern Nigeria. Authorities immediately launched efforts to secure his release while intensifying investigations into the incident.

Confirming the development, the Kebbi State Police Command said Justice Bunza had reunited with his family in good health. The command maintained that despite the kidnappers’ ransom demand, security agencies did not negotiate or make any payment to secure his freedom. Investigations are continuing to identify those behind the abduction and bring them to justice.

The judge’s release has been welcomed by members of the legal community and residents of Kebbi State, many of whom had prayed for his safe return. Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes, assuring the public that operations to apprehend the perpetrators remain ongoing.