The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the abduction of Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court, describing the incident as an attack on the judiciary, the administration of justice and the rule of law.
In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the association called for the immediate and unconditional release of the judge, who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area by suspected armed bandits.
The NBA expressed concern over what it described as the increasing audacity of criminal groups targeting judicial officers and institutions responsible for the administration of justice, warning that such attacks could undermine public confidence in the justice system.
The association urged the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, the National Security Adviser and other security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to ensure the safe rescue of Justice Bunza.
It also called on the Kebbi State Government to work with federal security agencies to secure his release and bring those responsible to justice.
The NBA further advocated stronger security measures for judicial officers across the country, stressing the need to protect judges as they carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
Justice Bunza was reportedly abducted on Sunday night shortly after returning to his residence from Sokoto State.
The Kebbi State Police Command said tactical and intelligence operatives had been deployed to rescue the judge, while a manhunt for the abductors is ongoing.
