Details have emerged on how security forces, under the coordination of the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, secured the release of the three abducted children of Kaduna judge Mrs Janet Gimba on July 9, 2024.
The three boys were abducted on June 23, 2024 alongside their mother, and the kidnappers murdered an elder brother.
The kidnappers later released the mother to go home and raise a ransom of N150 million for the remaining children to be released.
The three children, already united with their parents, were rescued without paying the N150million ransom demanded by the kidnappers, insider sources confirmed.
The source said other tools available to the state were rather deployed, adding that no arrest was made during the operation.
A statement by their father, Dr. Musa Dutse Gimba, confirming their release commended security agencies for demonstrating exceptional professionalism and bravery during the rescue operations.
He particularly thanked Ribadu and the Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa for ensuring the safe return of the remaining children.
He said, “On behalf of my family, I wish to issue this statement to inform the public that yesterday, the 9th day of July 2024, my wife and I were reunited with our three surviving boys.
“As you may recall, rather tragically, during the ordeal that commenced with their abduction on the 23rd of June, 2024, the first of our children was killed by the kidnappers, before the mother was released to secure a ransom of N150 million.
“However, security forces successfully conducted the rescue operation, demonstrating exceptional professionalism and bravery. Thanks to the meticulous planning and coordination led by the Office of the National Security Adviser, our three surviving children are now free.
“While we still earnestly grieve the death of our eldest son, whose life was cut short before his prime, we thank God for the opportunity he has given us to be reunited with our surviving children”
Gimba called for closure to the harrowing and unforgettable experience his family went through and thanked the Kaduna government and other security agencies including but not limited to the Nigerian Army Garrison Commander in Kaduna State, the Department of Security Services, Kaduna State, the Nigeria Police Force, Kaduna State Command, military intelligence and the National Intelligence Agency for the various roles that they played.
May God protect us all, from the whims of evil and wicked people. May He also reward everyone who showered us with their selfless sacrifices and show of love in this very difficult situation,“ he said.
