The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the disturbing video of Ahmed Zakka, who was abducted alongside his wife and infant child in Kaduna, calling on the government to rescue the victims and protect communities.
In a statement issued on Monday, the former vice president said the incident “is a painful reminder of the insecurity that continues to threaten lives and tear families apart across Nigeria.”
He said the government must move beyond reassurances to effective actions that protect citizens.
Atikusaid, “No Nigerian should have to plead for their life or the safety of their family in the hands of criminals. The thought of an infant caught in this ordeal is especially heartbreaking. I urge the relevant security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to secure the safe release of Ahmed Zakka, his wife, their child, and every other Nigerian still held in captivity.
“This tragedy comes as families are already struggling with the crushing cost of living. Nigerians are battling the rising cost of food, transport, and other essentials; they should not also have to live in fear of being abducted in their homes or on the roads. Insecurity deepens hardship, disrupts livelihoods, and leaves families bearing both emotional and financial burdens they can scarcely afford.
“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. Every Nigerian deserves to live, work, and raise a family without the constant fear of violence.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Zakka family and all families enduring the trauma of kidnapping. The protection of every Nigerian life must remain an overriding responsibility of government.”
Zakka, his family, and some other residents were abducted from their homes in Millennium City, Kaduna, a fortnight ago, during which a resident lost his life.
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