The family of Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court has confirmed paying N50 million to kidnappers to secure his release after eight days in captivity.
The judge was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State on July 26 and regained his freedom on Monday.
His release was earlier confirmed by the Kebbi State Police Command, his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice.
A family member, who spoke to newsmen in confidence, disclosed that the abductors initially demanded N200 million but later agreed to accept N50 million following several days of negotiations, according to Daily Trust.
The source said Justice Bunza is currently recuperating at his residence and would speak publicly about his experience after he has fully recovered.
The family member also expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State Government, security agencies, the judiciary and residents of the state for their support, prayers and solidarity during the judge’s abduction.
Meanwhile, another relative, who spoke to the Hausa online platform, DCL Hausa, claimed that the ransom was delivered on Friday at a location deep inside a forest more than 70 kilometres from Birnin Kebbi.
The relative alleged that the kidnappers requested five bottles of malt drinks and five bottles of Dudu drinks before collecting the ransom.
The source further disclosed that the family received information about the judge’s release between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. on Monday.
According to the relative, Justice Bunza was brought home in a commercial vehicle transporting firewood.
The source added that the judge appeared to be in good health and had no visible signs of physical abuse after regaining his freedom.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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