In the heart of Kaduna, Nigeria, a young and passionate political activist named Abubakar Idris , widely known by his social media moniker Dadiyata, was once a fearless critic of the Nigerian government. Aged just 33 at the time of his abduction, Dadiyata was not just a digital influencer; he was a symbol of the growing resistance against political oppression in one of Africa’s most populous and resource-rich nations. His disappearance in August 2019 has since sparked a storm of outrage both within Nigeria and abroad, raising questions about the state of human rights, the rule of law, and the silencing of dissent in the country.
Dadiyata was known for his outspoken online presence, where he frequently used social media platforms to criticize government policies, address social injustice, and advocate for the rights of marginalized Nigerians. His posts were often laced with raw truth and a defiant spirit—an unfiltered commentary on the failures of the government to protect its people and address the rampant corruption plaguing the country. From pointing out government mismanagement to exposing human rights violations, Dadiyata’s messages resonated with many young Nigerians, who felt their voices had long been ignored by those in power.
But on the night of August 2, 2019, Dadiyata’s voice was abruptly silenced. He was abducted from his home in Kaduna, a city known for its political significance, yet also notorious for its history of ethnic and religious tensions. He was taken from his residence in the dead of night by a group of unknown assailants. His wife and children were left in shock, unable to fathom what had happened to the man who had been an anchor of political discourse for so many Nigerians.
The circumstances of his disappearance remain shrouded in mystery. In the days following his abduction, his family, friends, and fellow activists launched desperate appeals for his release, but there was no official response. No one took responsibility for his kidnapping, and the police, instead of investigating the crime, appeared to be indifferent or even complicit. The Nigerian government remained silent, offering no assurances to the public or Dadiyata’s family, despite widespread outcry from civil society and human rights organizations both within Nigeria and abroad.
Dadiyata’s case is not an isolated incident. It is part of a disturbing pattern of abductions, disappearances, and political repression targeting dissenting voices in Nigeria. His critics have long suspected that his abduction was a direct result of his vocal criticism of the government, particularly the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, which had increasingly shown hostility toward opposition figures and activists. Dadiyata’s online posts had become a thorn in the side of the government, raising uncomfortable questions about its accountability and treatment of ordinary Nigerians. His popularity as an online influencer made him a prime target for those who feared his message could ignite further dissent, particularly among the youth—a demographic that was rapidly becoming disillusioned with the status quo.
Since his disappearance, Dadiyata’s case has drawn attention from human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, both of which have condemned the Nigerian government’s failure to investigate and hold perpetrators accountable. The United Nations has also expressed concern over the increasing number of enforced disappearances in Nigeria, highlighting Dadiyata’s case as one of the most glaring examples of the erosion of human rights in the country.
But what has been even more concerning than the disappearance itself is the continued impunity with which such acts of violence are carried out. Political leaders, security agencies, and the judicial system seem to have turned a blind eye to these grave human rights violations. Dadiyata’s family, now left in anguish, continues to demand justice, but with each passing day, it becomes clearer that the Nigerian authorities have no intention of holding anyone accountable.
This ongoing silence and inaction by the Nigerian government are not only an insult to Dadiyata’s family but to the countless Nigerians whose voices have been silenced through violence, intimidation, and fear. The world must ask: Is Nigeria truly a democracy when individuals are abducted for simply speaking out against the government? Can we consider a country free when dissent is met with kidnapping, torture, and forced silence?
Dadiyata’s story is a warning. His disappearance underscores the dangers faced by ordinary citizens in Nigeria who dare to criticize the government. It is a call to action for the international community to step in and demand that the Nigerian government not only locate Dadiyata but also end the cycle of violence against activists and political opponents. The Nigerian authorities must be held accountable for failing to protect their citizens and for perpetuating a culture of fear that is only growing stronger.
A Global Call for Justice
The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the plight of Ahmed Sani, or Dadiyata. His disappearance is a stark reminder of the power imbalance in Nigeria, where those in power can suppress dissent with impunity. The international community must demand that the Nigerian government:
- Immediately locate and release Dadiyata, or at the very least provide credible evidence of his whereabouts.
- Investigate and prosecute those responsible for his abduction, including any individuals within the security forces or government who may be complicit.
- Address the larger issue of political violence in Nigeria by ending the culture of impunity for those who attack, kidnap, or murder political opponents, journalists, and activists.
- Ensure the protection of freedom of speech and assembly for Nigerians, especially young people who have become disillusioned with the government and its failure to meet their needs.
Dadiyata’s abduction is a human rights crisis that cannot be ignored. It is a violation not only of his personal freedoms but of the democratic principles that Nigeria claims to uphold. The international community must stand united in demanding justice for Dadiyata and all Nigerians who have been silenced by violence. It is time for global intervention, and it is time for Nigeria to end its reign of fear and intimidation.
The Fight for Dadiyata’s Life and Legacy
Ahmed Sani, or Dadiyata, is more than just a name. He represents the hopes of an entire generation of Nigerians—young, outspoken, and unafraid to challenge authority. His disappearance is a tragic reminder that political freedom in Nigeria comes at a steep price, but it is also a rallying cry. The world must not let Dadiyata’s voice fade into silence. The world must act, before it is too late.
Let this article be a wake-up call to all those who believe in human rights, justice, and freedom. It is time to demand the immediate release of Dadiyata, and to hold those who perpetuate this injustice accountable. The international community must not rest until Dadiyata is freed and those responsible for his abduction are brought to justice. The fight for Dadiyata is the fight for democracy, human rights, and the future of Nigeria.
