Bandits have abducted Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza, a High Court judge in Kebbi State, in a brazen attack that occurred at his residence on Sunday. The incident took place along Zogirma Road in Bunza Local Government Area, where the judge was reportedly attacked by armed men shortly after returning from a trip to Sokoto. The abduction has sent shockwaves through the judiciary and security circles, raising concerns over the safety of judicial officers in the region.
According to a source cited by Daily Trust, the gunmen stormed the judge’s home without warning, firing sporadic shots as they carried out the abduction. Despite the violent intrusion, no one inside the house was injured during the attack. The source emphasized that the assailants acted swiftly, taking Justice Bunza away before security personnel could respond. The motive behind the kidnapping remains unclear, but such attacks are increasingly common in northern Nigeria, where banditry and insecurity have plagued communities for years.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Kebbi State Command, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the abduction, acknowledging the incident and stating that security agencies are currently investigating. He assured the public that all available resources are being deployed to locate and rescue the judge. The police have also launched an appeal for information, urging anyone with details about the whereabouts of Justice Bunza to come forward.
This incident highlights the growing threat faced by public officials in Nigeria’s northern states, where insecurity has reached alarming levels. Judicial officers, government workers, and ordinary citizens continue to be targeted in attacks that undermine public trust and the rule of law. The abduction of Justice Bunza adds to a disturbing pattern of violence against professionals in the region, including previous attacks on judges, school children, and healthcare workers.
The Nigerian Bar Association and other legal bodies have expressed alarm over the incident, calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of judicial personnel. They have urged the federal and state governments to intensify security measures and bring perpetrators of such crimes to justice. The judiciary’s independence and integrity are at stake, and repeated attacks on judges threaten the stability of the legal system.
As the search for Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza continues, families and colleagues remain in anguish, hoping for his safe return. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and stronger protection for public servants across Nigeria. The nation watches closely, awaiting updates on the ongoing rescue efforts and the broader implications for justice and safety in the region.
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