SUNTV Global Channel Report | February 14, 2026
Global human rights organisation Amnesty International has renewed its call for an independent investigation into the disappearance of Nigerian activist Abubakar Idris, widely known as Dadiyata, nearly seven years after he was reportedly abducted.
In a statement released Saturday titled “Where Is Dadiyata?”, the rights group expressed serious concern over the prolonged uncertainty surrounding his fate and the emotional trauma endured by his family since his disappearance in August 2019.
Dadiyata, a social media commentator known for his outspoken criticism of political leaders, was allegedly taken from his residence in Kaduna by unidentified gunmen on August 2, 2019. His whereabouts have remained unknown, despite earlier police investigations.
Amnesty International linked the activist’s disappearance to his critical online commentary and insisted that authorities must act urgently.
“The time for investigation is now,” the organisation stated, stressing that only a transparent and independent inquiry can uncover the truth and deliver justice.
The group also highlighted the emotional toll on his loved ones, noting that his family has lived for years with the pain of not knowing whether he is alive or dead.
Political Controversy Deepens
The renewed calls come amid rising political tensions following fresh allegations traded between prominent political figures.
Former Kano governor and ex-national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has strongly denied accusations linking him to Dadiyata’s disappearance.
The allegations were earlier made by former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai during a televised interview, where he suggested Ganduje had a role in the activist’s abduction.
In a response issued through his spokesperson, Ganduje described the claims as “reckless and unfounded,” insisting the incident occurred in Kaduna and fell under the jurisdiction of that state and federal security agencies.
He also questioned why any alleged confessions or evidence implicating him were never formally presented to law enforcement authorities.
“Serious accusations must be backed by verifiable evidence — not political rhetoric,” the statement said.
Calls For Justice Continue
Civil society groups and activists have continued to demand clarity on the case, arguing that unresolved disappearances undermine public trust, human rights protections, and the rule of law.
Amnesty International reiterated that accountability in enforced disappearance cases is essential, urging authorities to launch a credible, well-resourced public investigation.
Nearly seven years on, the fate of Dadiyata remains one of Nigeria’s most troubling unresolved human rights cases — with mounting public pressure for answers, justice, and closure for his family.
