Kidnapped Kebbi high court judge released

Faruku Bunza, a judge of the Kebbi state high court, has regained his freedom after spending days in captivity.

Bunza was abducted on July 26 from his residence on Zogirma Road in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi state.

The incident occurred shortly after the judge returned from a trip to Sokoto. He was freed on August 3, 2026.

In a statement issued on Monday, Bashir Usman, spokesperson of the Kebbi police command, said Bunza’s release was confirmed by his family and the state ministry of justice.

Usman said the abductors had demanded a ransom but noted that the police command maintains its policy against the payment of ransom.

The police spokesperson did not state whether any ransom was paid before Bunza was released.

“The Kebbi State Police Command wishes to inform the public that Hon. Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza, a Judge of the Kebbi State High Court who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area on 26th July 2026, was released earlier today, 3rd August 2026,” the statement reads.

“His release has been confirmed by his family and the State Ministry of Justice. Although the kidnappers made a ransom demand, the Command maintains its firm stance against ransom payments.

“With the Judge now released, Police and other security agencies have intensified investigative efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

“The Command urges members of the public to provide useful information that could assist in this regard. All information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality.”