Atiku Condemns Kaduna Kidnap, Urges Security Agencies to Rescue Family

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged security agencies to secure the release of Ahmed Zakka, his wife and their infant child, reportedly abducted in Kaduna State.

Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, described the incident as a painful reminder of the insecurity threatening lives and families across Nigeria.

In a statement reacting to a disturbing video of Zakka, Atiku called on security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to rescue the family and other Nigerians still held in captivity.

“No Nigerian should have to plead for their life or the safety of their family in the hands of criminals,” he said.

He described the reported involvement of an infant in the incident as particularly heartbreaking, stressing that the government must prioritise the protection of citizens.

Atiku also linked the security challenges to the economic difficulties facing Nigerians, noting that many households were already struggling with rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses.

According to him, insecurity further worsens the situation by disrupting livelihoods and imposing emotional and financial burdens on affected families.

“The government must 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 said.

The former vice-president maintained that Nigerians should be able to live, work and raise their families without the constant fear of violence.

He expressed sympathy with the Zakka family and other families affected by kidnapping, adding that protecting citizens’ lives must remain a primary responsibility of government.

As of the time of the statement, no further details were provided regarding the circumstances of the reported abduction or the whereabouts of the family.