How we secured Kebbi High Court judge’s release – Family

n n

By Haruna Aliyu

n

While friends, relatives and well-wishers of the kidnapped Kebbi High Court judge, Justice Faruku Bunza, celebrate as he rejoins his family, Vanguard reveals what transpired which led to his release from captivity after one week.

n

The judge’s family has disputed the Kebbi State Police Command’s claim that no ransom was paid for his release, insisting that ₦50 million, soft drinks and biscuits were paid before he regained his freedom.

n

In a statement, the Kebbi State Police Command maintained that no ransom was paid to secure his freedom.

n

However, a close family member disputed the police’s account, claiming that the family paid ₦50 million along with some undisclosed items before the judge was released.

n

One of the judge’s relatives, Malam Faruku, confirmed to our correspondent that Justice Bunza returned home in good health following his release.

n

A visit by our correspondent to Bunza found family members, friends and well-wishers trooping to the judge’s residence to celebrate his safe return and offer prayers for his continued safety.

n

The incident has once again highlighted the persistent threat of kidnapping for ransom in parts of Nigeria, with residents renewing calls on security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the growing insecurity.

n

One of the judge’s brothers, who narrated what happened but did not want to be named, stated that they saw him alighting from a commercial vehicle around 8am on Monday, indicating that he has been released.

n

Speaking further, he said that the kidnappers initially demanded N200 million as ransom but the family negotiated and reached an agreement to pay N50 million.

n n