Sixteen people, including a bride, who were abducted during an attack on a wedding convoy in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State have regained their freedom after spending 57 days in captivity.

Their release followed the payment of nearly N25 million in ransom, reportedly raised by families of the victims and members of the community.

The incident occurred on January 10, 2026, during a wedding ceremony involving the family of Malam Abubakar Santuraki Ubandoman Lim in Gwammadaji town, Dull B Ward of Tafawa Balewa LGA.

In a statement issued on March 8, Bakiru Hassan Maga Takadda, speaking on behalf of the Gwammadaji Community Development Association, said the victims were kidnapped when gunmen ambushed a wedding convoy transporting the bride to Dogo Yeli in Bachama Ward of Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The attackers reportedly seized about 16 people, including the bride, members of the bridal escort, and friends of the groom.

Those abducted were said to be residents of Gwammadaji, Wurno, and Burga communities in Tafawa Balewa LGA of Bauchi State.

The association noted that the incident plunged the affected families and the wider community into deep fear and emotional distress, as the victims remained in captivity for nearly two months under uncertain and difficult conditions.

“For 57 painful days, families, relatives and well-wishers lived in deep anxiety while continuing to pray and hope for their safe return,” the statement said.

According to the association, the community received support in the form of sympathy, encouragement and prayers from individuals, religious leaders, community organisations and concerned citizens across the country during the ordeal.

However, it expressed concern that no government official, security personnel, or political representative visited the affected families or the community throughout the period of the incident.

The community also urged authorities to strengthen security along major highways and inter-state routes in order to prevent similar attacks and ensure the safety of travellers.