The family of a Kebbi State High Court judge, Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza, has confirmed paying a ₦50 million ransom in a desperate bid to secure his freedom after he was abducted from his residence.
The disclosure comes amid growing concerns over the rising wave of kidnappings targeting prominent individuals across Nigeria, despite repeated warnings from security agencies against the payment of ransom.
Justice Bunza was reportedly kidnapped from his home in Kebbi State by armed assailants. Following days of uncertainty over his whereabouts, family members confirmed that they eventually raised and paid ₦50 million to the kidnappers to facilitate his release.
The confirmation has sparked renewed debate over the worsening security situation in parts of the country and the difficult choices families often face when loved ones are held captive.
Authorities are yet to issue a detailed official statement on the family’s revelation, while it remains unclear whether any arrests have been made in connection with the abduction.
The incident is expected to intensify calls for stronger security measures and more effective strategies to combat kidnapping, which continues to pose a serious threat to lives and public safety across Nigeria.
