KADUNA COUNCILLOR REGAINS FREEDOM AFTER FOUR DAYS IN KIDNAPPERS’ DEN

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

A councillor representing Gwantu Ward in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State, David Ali, has regained his freedom after spending four days in the custody of kidnappers.

Ali was abducted late Thursday night when five gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons stormed his residence in Gwantu town. The assailants whisked him away in the presence of his family, sparking panic across the community.

Confirming his release, the Chairman of Sanga Local Government, Anto Usman, said on Tuesday that Ali was freed between 8 and 9 p.m. on Monday.

While describing the area’s security situation as “relatively stable,” Usman acknowledged that incidents of crime persisted, often aided by local informants. He added that four suspects had been arrested this year and were currently facing prosecution.

“We’re trying to curb most of the hotspots, and we’re holding periodic security meetings to ensure our local government is safer for our people,” Usman said, praising Governor Uba Sani for fostering stronger collaboration among security agencies.

A resident, who requested anonymity, revealed that Ali was released in a bush around Ninzo community after his family reportedly paid a N4m ransom.

“His return is nothing short of an answer to prayers, and we are grateful to God for sparing his life,” the source said.

The abduction triggered outrage and fear in Gwantu, as neither security forces nor local vigilantes were able to rescue the lawmaker before his release.

Meanwhile, social media has been flooded with relief messages from constituents and party supporters, describing Ali as “a true representative of the people” who endured a traumatic ordeal.

Efforts to reach Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, were unsuccessful as of press time.