The Department of State Services (DSS) has reopened investigations into the 2019 disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, and is set to invite individuals connected to the case for questioning.
Dadiyata, a lecturer at the Federal University Dutsinma in Katsina State, was declared missing in August 2019 after he was reportedly taken from his residence in Kaduna by gunmen. Nearly seven years later, his whereabouts remain unknown.
The renewed investigation has drawn fresh attention following emotional appeals by Kadijah, Dadiyata’s wife, who expressed deep concern over her husband’s prolonged disappearance. Speaking in a recently released video interview, she appealed to Nigerians to help uncover whether her husband is alive or dead.
She recalled witnessing his abduction from their home in August 2019, describing the experience as traumatic and painful. Kadijah also reacted to past social media comments allegedly made about her husband, saying they caused her distress during an already difficult period.
During the interview, calls were made for justice and support for Kadijah and her children, including appeals to authorities to assist with their welfare, education, and living conditions.
The case resurfaced following recent public comments by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who denied any involvement in Dadiyata’s disappearance. El-Rufai stated that he was not aware of Dadiyata before the incident and argued that the missing commentator was more critical of the Kano State government than Kaduna State.
In response, former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, rejected any link to the case, describing the claims as unfounded and insisting that the incident occurred entirely within Kaduna State. He maintained that Dadiyata was widely known for his criticism of the Kaduna State government.
Security sources indicate that the DSS has intensified its probe into the disappearance and related cases of missing persons. The investigation is expected to include questioning of key individuals connected to the matter as authorities seek clarity and accountability over the long-unresolved case.
