Justice Faruku Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court, who was abducted by gunmen a week ago, has been released and has safely reunited with his family.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed his release in a statement issued on Monday by its Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman. According to the police, the judge regained his freedom on Monday, with his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice also confirming the development.

The Command disclosed that although the abductors demanded a ransom, it maintained its policy of not paying ransom to secure the release of kidnap victims.

Police said investigations have been intensified to identify, arrest and prosecute those behind the abduction.

The Command also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist the ongoing investigation, assuring that any information received would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

The police further thanked residents of the state and other security agencies for their cooperation and support throughout the rescue efforts.

A member of Justice Bunza’s family also confirmed that the judge had returned home safely.

“We are in jubilation and full of gratitude to God for seeing our own return safely from captivity. He was just released and has returned home now after spending one week with the bandits,” the family member said.

The family appreciated the Kebbi State Judiciary, security agencies and residents of the state for their prayers, encouragement and support during the difficult period.

“We sincerely thank and appreciate the Kebbi State Judiciary, the security agencies, and the entire people of Kebbi State who contributed in different ways, offered prayers, and sent messages of sympathy. Your concern and support gave us strength, and we are grateful for your solidarity,” the relative stated.

The family added that further information on the circumstances surrounding the judge’s release would be disclosed later.

“Other details of how he was released will be made available later,” he added.