By Stephen Simon
Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has regained his freedom after spending about one week in the custody of his abductors, bringing relief to his family, colleagues and members of the legal profession.
The judge was abducted on July 26 from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State by armed men, an incident that sparked widespread condemnation from judicial officers, the Nigerian Bar Association and other stakeholders who demanded his immediate and unconditional release
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The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed on Monday that Justice Bunza had regained his freedom and safely returned home. While authorities did not immediately disclose the circumstances surrounding his release, family members expressed gratitude that he had returned unharmed after the traumatic ordeal.
The abduction of a serving High Court judge once again highlights the growing insecurity confronting judicial officers and other public officials across the country. In recent years, judges, lawyers and court personnel have increasingly become targets of kidnappers, raising concerns over their safety and the administration of justice.
Following the judge’s abduction, members of the legal community urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue him and improve security around judicial officers, particularly those serving in areas vulnerable to attacks by criminal gangs.
Security analysts say the incident underscores the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved community policing and enhanced protection for judges whose work often exposes them to security risks arising from sensitive criminal and civil cases.
Although Justice Bunza’s release has been welcomed, many observers insist that the incident should prompt a broader review of security arrangements for judicial officers across Nigeria. They argue that ensuring the safety of judges is essential to preserving the independence of the judiciary and maintaining public confidence in the justice systems.
