Bride, 15 Others Freed After 57 Days in Captivity

Sixteen people, including a bride, have been released after spending 57 days in captivity following an abduction along a wedding convoy route in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area, Bauchi State.

The release came after families and community members raised nearly N25 million, reportedly paid as ransom to secure their freedom.

The kidnapping occurred on January 10, 2026, during the wedding of Malam Abubakar Santuraki Ubandoman Lim’s family in Gwammadaji town, Dull B Ward. Armed gunmen intercepted the convoy transporting the bride to Dogo Yeli in Bachama Ward, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. Sixteen people, including the bride, members of the bridal escort, and friends of the groom, were abducted. The victims are residents of Gwammadaji, Wurno, and Burga communities in Tafawa Balewa LGA.

A statement issued by Bakiru Hassan Maga Takadda of the Gwammadaji Community Development Association on March 8 described the ordeal as “57 painful days” of uncertainty and emotional distress for the families. The statement noted that the community received widespread support from individuals, religious leaders, and organizations nationwide.

The association criticized the absence of government officials, security personnel, and political representatives during the crisis and urged stronger security measures on major highways and inter-state routes to prevent similar attacks.