Atiku condemns abduction of Kaduna family, urges urgent Action on insecurity
Abdullateef Fowewe
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) 2027 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has decried the abduction of Ahmed Abubakar Zakka, his wife, and their infant child in Kaduna State, describing a circulating video of the family in captivity as a “painful reminder of the insecurity that continues to threaten lives and tear families apart across Nigeria.”
In a statement posted on X on Monday, Atiku said, “No Nigerian should have to plead for their life or the safety of their family in the hands of criminals. The thought of an infant caught in this ordeal is especially heartbreaking. I urge the relevant security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to secure the safe release of Ahmed Zakka, his wife, their child and every other Nigerian still held in captivity.”
He linked the incident to broader economic pressures, noting that it comes as families already struggle with the “crushing cost of living.”
“Nigerians are battling the rising cost of food, transport and other essentials; they should not also have to live in fear of being abducted in their homes or on the roads. Insecurity deepens hardship, disrupts livelihoods and leaves families bearing both emotional and financial burdens they can scarcely afford,” Atiku stated.
The former vice president called on the government to “move beyond assurances and deliver an effective, sustained response: rescue those in captivity, protect vulnerable communities and dismantle the networks responsible for these crimes.”
He added that every Nigerian deserves to live, work, and raise a family without constant fear of violence, and extended his thoughts and prayers to the Zakka family and others affected by kidnapping.
Armed bandits reportedly invaded Alrahus Estate in Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Monday, October 5, 2026, abducting Zakka, his wife, their infant daughter, and others, including a pregnant woman.
A video released by the captors shows Zakka holding the baby while seated beside his wife, with an armed individual nearby.
In the footage, Zakka identifies himself and appeals for help, stating that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N300 million.
Kaduna State, particularly areas around the metropolis and Chikun LGA, has faced repeated incidents of banditry and kidnapping in recent years.
