Kebbi High Court Judge Returns Home Safely After One Week in Captivity

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Faruku Hassan Bunza, a Kebbi High Court judge, has regained his freedom after one week in captivity. The 54-year-old was abducted by bandits last week in Kebbi State, sparking widespread concern across the state. His family confirmed that he returned home safely on Monday, August 3, 2026, and are 'in jubilation and full of gratitude to God'.

The family expressed appreciation to all those who stood by them during the 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,' a family member stated.

The exact details of how Judge Bunza was released are yet to be made public, but a family member hinted that more information would be provided later. The Kebbi State Judiciary and security agencies have yet to release an official statement.

The judge's abduction drew widespread attention on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concern for his safety. Some called for his immediate release, while others urged the government to take concrete steps to ensure the security of judges and other public figures.

Judge Bunza was appointed to the high court in 2015 by the Kebbi State Governor, and has since become a respected figure in the legal community. He has been involved in several high-profile cases, including a recent trial involving a prominent politician.

As news of his release spread, many in Kebbi State breathed a sigh of relief. The state has been plagued by insecurity in recent years, with several high-profile kidnappings and attacks on government officials.

And while the circumstances surrounding Judge Bunza's release are unclear, his family is rejoicing at his safe return. They have asked for continued prayers and support as they continue to navigate this challenging period.

In an interview, the family member stated: 'We are grateful 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 added: '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.'

And it's not just the family that is relieved. The Kebbi State government has also hailed the release of the judge. 'We are glad that Judge Bunza has been released safely,' said a government spokesperson. 'We will continue to work with security agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens.'

Judge Bunza's release is a relief to many in Kebbi State, who had been anxious about his fate. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the state and the need for government to take concrete steps to address them.

The Kebbi State government has been working to improve security in the state, but much more needs to be done. The release of Judge Bunza is a welcome development, but it is essential that the government continues to prioritize the safety of all citizens.

A relative of the judge said: 'We are grateful 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.'

As the news of Judge Bunza's release spreads, many in Kebbi State are rejoicing. The state has been plagued by insecurity in recent years, and the release of the judge is a welcome relief.

The full details of Judge Bunza's abduction and release are yet to be made public. However, it is clear that his family is grateful for his safe return and is asking for continued support and prayers.