Kaduna, Nigeria – Gunmen have reportedly abducted Janet Galadima-Gimba, a customary court judge, along with her four sons from their residence in the Mahuta area of Kaduna. The incident occurred on the night of June 23 while her husband, a medical doctor, was away on duty.
Details of the Abduction:
- Abducted Individuals: Janet Galadima-Gimba and her four sons.
- Number of Abductors: Approximately 15 gunmen.
- Ransom Demand: The kidnappers demanded N300 million for their release.
Tragic Development:
- Death of Eldest Son: The abductors killed 14-year-old Victor Gimba, the judge’s first son, on July 2 after the family failed to pay the demanded ransom.
Official Reactions:
- Gloria Ballason’s Statement: Gloria Ballason, Chief Executive Officer of the House of Justice, condemned the abduction and murder. She highlighted the need for protection and adequate security for judicial officers under Article 7 of the United Nations Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary. She emphasized that the Nigerian state has a constitutional mandate to ensure the safety of all citizens.
- Call for Action: Ballason urged the government, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and security agencies to take urgent action to rescue the judge and her children.
Police Response:
- Investigation and Rescue Efforts: Mansir Hassan, spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, confirmed the incident. He stated that the police are making efforts to rescue the victims and that an investigation has commenced into the killing of Victor Gimba.
The abduction has sparked outrage and calls for heightened security measures to protect judicial officers and their families, reflecting the ongoing insecurity issues in the region.