Barrister Hashim Abdullahi has regained his freedom after spending 21 days in captivity following his abduction while travelling to Sokoto.

Sources said the lawyer was released after his family and well-wishers reportedly paid an unspecified ransom to secure his freedom.

Barrister Abdullahi was kidnapped 21 days ago while on his way to Sokoto after attending a meeting of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) in Kano.

Confirming the development, the immediate past President of MULAN, Barrister Saidu Muhammad Tuduwada, said the lawyer had been released by his captors.

“Yes, it is true that he has just been released by his captives,” Tuduwada said.

“We thank Allah for His mercy, and we sincerely appreciate everyone for your prayers, support, and concern during this difficult period.”

Before his release, the kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom of N100 million, but later reduced the demand to N10 million, giving the family a 48-hour ultimatum to meet the demand.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Barrister Abdullahi’s release were still sketchy as of the time of filing this report.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident. (Saturday Tribune, but headline rejigged)

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