DSS Finally Releases Abducted Girl Walida to Jigawa Governor After Lengthy Custody Dispute
The Department of State Services (DSS) has officially released Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim, a young woman who had been missing since 2023, into the custody of Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State. This significant development occurred on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn national attention and sparked debates over child protection and institutional accountability.
Governor Namadi Assures Safety and Recovery for Walida
Governor Umar Namadi personally received Walida from DSS custody, although her parents were notably absent during the late-night handover, which concluded around 10:40 pm. In a statement, Governor Namadi emphasized the Jigawa State government's commitment to ensuring Walida's safety and facilitating her full recovery from the trauma she endured. He assured the public that justice would be served, with the court set to handle all matters related to her abduction.
The governor clarified that Walida, along with her newborn daughter, will remain under the custody of the Jigawa State government while the contentious issues surrounding her case are resolved. However, he indicated that she would not be immediately taken back to Jigawa; instead, she will stay in Abuja for the time being, where she will receive adequate security and support. Governor Namadi stressed that this case is treated as a state matter, underscoring the government's proactive involvement.
Background of Walida's Abduction and Custody Struggle
Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim went missing in 2023 after allegedly being abducted from Hadejia Local Government Area in Jigawa State by an individual named Mariam. She later fled to Abuja, where she was subjected to sexual exploitation. Subsequently, she moved in with a DSS operative, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, and gave birth to a baby girl in November 2025.
In December 2025, Onyewuenyi contacted Walida's father to inform him of her whereabouts. Despite efforts by her relatives to recover her, these attempts proved unsuccessful, prompting her uncle to file a petition at the DSS headquarters in Abuja. Her father also approached a court in Jigawa State, which initially ordered her release to her parents. However, the DSS filed a counter-motion, insisting on continuing their investigation into the matter.
Public and Organizational Reactions to the Case
The case has ignited widespread public discourse, with organizations like the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) demanding Walida's release in compliance with court orders and calling for the arrest of Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi. MURIC commended the DSS leadership for promoting accountability but urged adherence to judicial directives. Meanwhile, Muslim groups have rejected the DSS's account of events, insisting that Walida was abducted and abused, and they have called for an independent investigation.
This situation has highlighted critical issues surrounding child protection, parental rights, and the role of security agencies in Nigeria. As authorities maintain that Walida was in protective custody, the ongoing legal proceedings aim to address these complex dynamics and ensure a just outcome for all parties involved.
