David Ali, a councillor representing Gwantu Ward in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has been released after four days in the custody of kidnappers.
Ali was abducted late on Thursday, September 4, when five gunmen, reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons, stormed his residence in Gwantu town. The attackers took him away shortly after midnight, leaving the community in shock.
Confirming the development, Sanga Local Government Chairman Anto Usman said the councillor was released between 8 and 9 p.m. on Monday.
“We’re trying to curb most of the hotspots, and we’re holding periodic security meetings to ensure our local government is safer for our people. So far this year, four arrests have been made, and those suspects are facing prosecution,” Usman said. He described the security situation as “relatively stable,” but acknowledged that incidents continue due to informants aiding criminal groups.
The chairman also commended Governor Uba Sani for enhancing collaboration among security agencies, noting that the measures were helping restore calm across the state.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, revealed that Ali was found in a bush near Ninzo community after his family reportedly paid a ransom of N4 million. “His return is nothing short of an answer to prayers, and we are grateful to God for sparing his life,” the resident said.
The abduction caused widespread fear in Gwantu, as local vigilantes and security operatives were unable to secure Ali’s release before the ransom was paid. Party members and constituents have taken to social media expressing relief, describing Ali as “a true representative of the people” who survived a harrowing ordeal.
