DSS Releases Abducted Girl Walida After Two Years

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Walida Abdulhadi, a 16-year-old girl who was abducted in 2023 from Hadejia Local Government Area, Jigawa State. During her captivity, she was reportedly subjected to sexual exploitation and later gave birth to a baby girl in November 2025 while in DSS custody.

The release occurred on a Wednesday night when Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi visited the DSS headquarters in Abuja, accompanied by various officials including Speaker Haruna Aliyu and Attorney General Bello Abdulkadir Fanini. Governor Namadi emphasized the state's commitment to ensuring Walida's safety and recovery from any trauma she experienced.

The DSS Director General, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, and other officials were present during the release. Walida's parents were not present at the DSS headquarters during this time.

Following her abduction, her family sought legal recourse, leading to a court directive for her release. The custody of her baby girl will remain with the Jigawa State Government.