In a heart-wrenching incident that has sent shockwaves through Kaduna State, bandits have taken the life of the eldest son of Judge Janet Galadima, a respected figure in the Kaduna State Customary Court. The tragedy unfolded as the kidnappers demanded an exorbitant N300 million ransom for the release of the judge and her three other children who remain in captivity.
On Sunday night, armed assailants invaded Judge Galadima’s home in Kaduna. Her medical doctor husband was away on duty at the time. The bandits, numbering around fifteen, took the judge and her four children hostage, leaving the family in a state of terror and uncertainty.
Despite efforts to negotiate with the kidnappers, the situation escalated tragically. On Tuesday, July 2, 2024, the bandits ruthlessly shot and killed Victor, the 14-year-old first son of the judge. The family’s anguish is immeasurable, and the loss of a young life has devastated the community.
The kidnappers initially demanded a staggering N300 million for the safe release of the judge and her remaining children. Although they later reduced the ransom to N298 million, the situation remains dire. Dr. Musa Gimba Dutse, the judge’s husband, has pleaded for their safe return, emphasizing that his family is innocent and undeserving of such brutality.
The shocking incident has sparked outrage among residents of Kaduna. The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has condemned the attack on Dr. Dutse’s family, urging authorities to expedite action and secure their immediate release. The NMA also highlighted the abduction of another doctor colleague six months ago, emphasizing the need to end this cycle of violence.
As the nation mourns the loss of Victor, the focus now shifts to justice. The gruesome murder of an innocent child underscores the urgency for stronger security measures and decisive action against criminal networks. The safety of judges and their families must be prioritized, and the community stands united in demanding justice for the Galadima family.
