A councillor representing Gwantu Ward in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State, David Ali, has regained freedom four days after being abducted by gunmen.
Ali was seized from his residence in Gwantu late Thursday night by five armed assailants, who stormed the house shortly after midnight and whisked him away in the presence of his family, causing panic across the community.
Confirming the development on Tuesday, Sanga LGA Chairman, Anto Usman, told PUNCH Online that Ali was released between 8 and 9 p.m. on Monday.
He described the security situation in the area as “relatively stable” but admitted that informants still aid criminal groups.
“We are working to curb hotspots and holding periodic security meetings to make the council area safer. Four arrests have been made this year, and the suspects are facing prosecution,” Usman said, commending Governor Uba Sani for fostering stronger collaboration among security agencies.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the councillor was freed in a bush near Ninzo community after his family allegedly paid N4m ransom.
“His return is an answer to prayers. We thank God for sparing his life,” the source added.
The abduction had sparked outrage and fear across Gwantu, as security operatives and vigilantes were unable to rescue the lawmaker before the ransom was paid.
Since his release, social media has been flooded with messages of relief from party stakeholders, constituents, and supporters who hailed Ali as “a true representative of the people” who endured a harrowing ordeal.
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Efforts to reach the Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered at press time.
