Kidnap Kingpin Wadume Receives Heroic Welcome in Taraba After Release from Prison

• Wadume, dubbed a “kidnap kingpin,” received a warm welcome from residents upon returning to his hometown in Ibbi, Taraba State
• Despite controversy surrounding his arrest and release, Wadume’s homecoming sparked celebration and joy among the people of Ibbi

Hamisu Bala, widely known as Wadume, received a grand reception from a large crowd upon his return to his hometown in Ibbi, Taraba State, on Sunday.

Wadume, dubbed as a “kidnap kingpin,” was apprehended by the Intelligence Response Team of the Inspector-General of Police in 2019. After serving his jail term, he was released from Kuje Prison in Abuja on Friday, as confirmed by prison sources.

The atmosphere in Ibbi town was electrifying as residents, both young and old, gathered to welcome Wadume back home. He was escorted from the riverside, where crowds had assembled, through the town before finally reaching his residence.

Musa Garba, a resident of Ibbi, described the town as being festive, celebrating Wadume’s regained freedom and return to his community.

Similarly, another resident, Nuhu, expressed joy over Wadume’s release, highlighting the celebratory atmosphere in Ibbi.

At his palace, Wadume also visited the Chief of Ibbi chiefdom, Alhaji Salihu Danbawuro. During the visit, Wadume expressed gratitude to the chief and the people of his chiefdom for their unwavering support throughout his trial and incarceration.

In response, Chief Salihu Danbawuro conveyed his happiness over Wadume’s return to Ibbi, emphasizing the community’s joy at his homecoming.

Wadume’s arrest in 2019 was marred by controversy when soldiers attacked the police team that had apprehended him. The soldiers, led by Tijjani Balarabe, reportedly freed Wadume and later engaged in a fatal altercation with the police officers, resulting in casualties.

Following his illegal release, Wadume was eventually traced and rearrested in Kano, where he had relocated with his family.

Despite the tumultuous events surrounding his arrest and subsequent release, Wadume’s return to Ibbi has sparked a sense of celebration among the residents, marking a new chapter in his life back in his hometown.