The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed on Sunday the release of kidnapping kingpin, Hamisu Bala (aka Wadume) from its Correctional Centre in Kuje on Friday.

According to officials of the NCoS, Bala was set free because he had completed his seven-year prison term.

According to reports, he received a warm welcome from a large crowd in his hometown of Ibbi, Taraba State, on Sunday. He also visited the traditional ruler of his village to express gratitude for his support during his trials.

DailyTrust reports that he was ferried into Ibbi through river Benue, where he was received by thousands of people, including youths and women.

Wadume was arrested by operatives of the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team in 2019. However, he escaped under controversial circumstances following an exchange of gunfire between policemen and soldiers from the 93 Battalion stationed along the Ibbi/Takum Road in Taraba State.

His release from prison has sparked reactions on social media

@MaiAgogon wrote: “Wadume receives a heroic welcome” Wadume din dai? We’re not serious at all wallahi”

@MizCazorla1 said, “Wadume, the kidnap kingpin FREED. Evans, the kidnapper bags 21yrs imprisonment. Remember some police officers were shot dead while trying to arrest wadume. What’s the difference between Wadume & Evans crimes? Nigeria’s justice system”

@Abdurashid24 wrote, “What a country where we celebrate criminals as heroes Some Leaders of tomorrow go dey emulate wadume as their role model.”

@peculiaryoel, “The large crowd welcoming ‘Wadume’ back to his hometown raises questions about societal attitudes towards crime and punishment. Are we celebrating the return of someone who caused harm to others, or is there a deeper issue at play regarding justice and accountability in our communities?”

@Olumide504 said, “Heroic welcome for wadume! But Nigeria justice system needs revisitation. This sentence may encourage more criminal minded person to do evil. I’m aware soldiers & police life were lost in the process for his arrest and being a gun runner. It’s a pity.”