By Ibidapo Olowolayemo, Ibadan
Friday February 27, 2026
Please, share this story:
In a high-stake midnight resolution to a national controversy, Jigawa State governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has officially taken custody of Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim, the 16-year-old girl whose disappearance and alleged custody by a security operative sparked a firestorm of judicial and religious debate.
The handover took place at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters in Abuja, Wednesday night, following intense pressure from civil society coalitions and the Jigawa State government.
According to PRNigeria, on Thursday, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, who spoke by telephone Thursday morning, said all necessary documentation had been concluded, with final arrangements underway to complete her formal transfer to the state government.
“I can authoritatively confirm that the Jigawa State government, under the leadership of Governor Umar Namadi, took custody of Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim last night.
“Other necessary arrangements will be finalised today to ensure her full transfer into government care,” Gumel stated.
He further explained that the state government had made arrangements to admit Walida to a hospital for a comprehensive medical evaluation to ascertain her physical and psychological condition.
According to him, the government would also facilitate her return to school and assume full responsibility for her educational needs up to the tertiary level to ensure her successful reintegration into society.
“Arrangements are being made to admit her into a hospital and take full responsibility for her healthcare and mental well-being.
“The government will also ensure she resumes her education and completes it successfully,” he added.
On the issue of accountability, Gumel stressed that the state government would pursue justice to its logical conclusion.
“The government will not rest on its oars until those responsible for her abduction and subsequent assault are brought to justice. The Nigeria Police Force is also expected to take over the process of identifying and prosecuting the culprits to ensure justice is served,” he assured.
—————————————-
Share your story or advertise with us:
08033783144 (WhatsApp)
08023469999(WhatsApp)
idowuadelusi@gmail.com,thepathfindernews0@gmail.com
Follow our reports also on X @idowuadelusi and Facebook (Idowu Oluwole Adelusi)