By Danjuma Amodu |
February 20, 2026
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reopened investigations into the 2019 disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, nearly seven years after the Kaduna-based academic and social media commentator was declared missing.
A security source confirmed that the agency is set to invite individuals linked to the case as part of renewed efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. Dadiyata, a lecturer at the Federal University Dutsinma in Katsina State, was reportedly abducted on August 2, 2019, by unidentified gunmen as he arrived at his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna.
His whereabouts have remained unknown since then, despite sustained public campaigns demanding answers. The reopening of the case comes amid renewed public attention following comments by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and emotional appeals from Dadiyata’s wife, Kadijah.
In a video interview, Kadijah expressed anguish over her husband’s continued absence, urging Nigerians to help her family ascertain whether he is alive or dead. “We pray that one day, he will come back,” she said.
Kadijah also recalled a social media comment allegedly made by Hadis Rufai, son of former Kaduna Governor, which she described as hurtful. Hadis Rufai reportedly tweeted: “Dadiyata should be taken care of”.
In an interview on Arise TV, Nasir El-Rufai hinted at possible connections between Dadiyata’s disappearance and former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, saying “there are people who had issues with him (Dadiyata)”. El-Rufai’s comments have sparked speculation and renewed calls for justice.
The family is seeking justice and support from the government and the public. Reno Omokri, who visited the family, pledged to pursue justice and appealed to the Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to provide support for Kadijah and her children.
