The Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue Magistrate Binta Mshelia, who has been held in captivity for eight months after being kidnapped on June 24, 2024.
Mshelia, a former chairperson of the Borno State branch of MAN, was abducted alongside her husband, Justice Haruna Mshelia, and his driver while traveling to Maiduguri. The armed attackers ambushed them between Borno and Yobe states.
While Justice Mshelia was released on September 8, the kidnappers have continued to hold Binta and the driver, sparking growing concerns over their safety.
Appeals for Her Release
Speaking on behalf of the association, MAN chairman in Borno, Ibrahim Umar, expressed deep concern over the prolonged captivity of Magistrate Mshelia. He urged security agencies to step up their rescue efforts and called on the kidnappers to release her.
“It is very disheartening that Her Worship is still in captivity seven months after she was kidnapped. We are all traumatized by her abduction,” Umar said.
“We appeal to the security agencies not to relent in their efforts to rescue the chief magistrate. We equally appeal to the abductors to free her. She has suffered enough in their captivity.”
Commendation for Ongoing Efforts
Umar also praised the Borno State government and the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Kashim Zanna, for their continued commitment to securing Mshelia’s release.
The abduction of the senior judicial officer has raised concerns about the security situation in Nigeria, particularly the rising cases of kidnappings targeting prominent individuals. Magistrates and legal professionals across the country have joined in demanding swift action to bring Mshelia home safely.