Kidnappers Demand ₦200 Million Ransom for Abducted Kebbi High Court Judge
Suspected kidnappers have demanded a ₦200 million ransom for the release of a Kebbi State High Court judge who was abducted by armed men, raising fresh concerns over the growing wave of kidnappings targeting judicial officers and other prominent Nigerians.
The judge was reportedly kidnapped after gunmen ambushed his vehicle while he was travelling, forcing him into the bush at gunpoint. The incident has triggered anxiety within the judiciary and among residents, with security agencies intensifying efforts to rescue the victim and apprehend those responsible.
Family members and close associates of the abducted judge disclosed that the kidnappers established contact and demanded ₦200 million as a condition for his release. The demand has heightened fears over the increasing sophistication of criminal gangs operating across parts of the country.
Security operatives have since launched coordinated search-and-rescue operations, with authorities assuring the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the judge’s safe release. Officials also urged residents to provide credible intelligence that could aid ongoing investigations while avoiding actions that could jeopardize rescue efforts.
The abduction has drawn widespread condemnation from legal practitioners, civil society groups and stakeholders in the justice sector, who described the incident as a direct attack on the judiciary and the rule of law. They called on the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve security across vulnerable communities.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have continued to pose serious challenges despite intensified security operations. Stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger measures to dismantle criminal networks and protect citizens from violent attacks.
