Hamisu Bala, also known as “Wadume,” a notorious figure convicted of kidnapping, was released from prison last Friday. Upon returning to his hometown in Ibbi, Taraba State, on Sunday, he received a heroic welcome.
Locals, including youths and women, cheered Wadume’s arrival. He was reportedly paraded through the town before visiting the palace of the Chief of Ibbi, Saliha Danbawuro, to express gratitude.
Wadume’s arrest in 2019 by a police tactical team was a high-profile case. A shootout ensued, tragically resulting in the deaths of three police officers allegedly by soldiers who intervened on Wadume’s behalf. This raised serious questions about corruption and collusion within security forces.
Following a lengthy trial, Wadume was sentenced to seven years in prison for kidnapping and related charges. Officials confirmed his release to journalists after serving his full term.
“We are in a festive mood as Wadume regained his freedom and is now out of prison and now with us in his home town Ibbi,” a local said.
The chief of Ibbi also expressed joy at Wadume’s freedom, saying “I and the entire people of Ibbi chiefdom are happy that Hamisu Wadume is now back in Ibbi his home town.”
While Wadume served his full 7-year sentence, his celebratory homecoming is seen by many Nigerians as outrageous and a concerning endorsement of criminal activity.
Many Nigerians expressed outrage on social media, questioning the values being promoted by celebrating a convicted criminal.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
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