By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the abduction of Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court by suspected armed bandits, describing the incident as an attack on the judiciary and the rule of law.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the NBA called for the immediate and unconditional release of the judge, who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The association said the attack on a serving judicial officer represents a direct threat to the administration of justice and public confidence in the legal system.
“The abduction of Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza is not only an assault on the judge but a direct attack on the Nigerian judiciary, the administration of justice and the rule of law,” the NBA said.
The NBA expressed concern over the increasing targeting of judicial officers and institutions by criminal elements, warning that such actions could undermine the justice system.
It urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, the National Security Adviser and other security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to secure the judge’s safe release.
The association also called on the Kebbi State Government to collaborate with federal security agencies to rescue Justice Bunza and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
It further demanded improved security measures for judicial officers nationwide, stressing that judges must be protected while performing their constitutional responsibilities.
Justice Bunza was reportedly abducted on Sunday night by armed men who invaded his residence along Zogirma Road in Bunza Local Government Area shortly after he returned from Sokoto State.
A family source said the attackers took the judge away without harming other occupants of the house or nearby residents.
Confirming the incident, Kebbi State Police Command spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, said tactical and intelligence operatives had been deployed to rescue the judge.
He added that security agencies had launched a coordinated search operation, including efforts to track the attackers and comb suspected hideouts and forest areas.
