Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the abduction of Ahmed Zakka, his wife and their infant child in Kaduna State, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their release.
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, said the incident underscored the persistent insecurity confronting Nigerians and the growing fear experienced by families across the country.
In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Monday, the former vice president described the reported abduction as distressing, particularly because a young child was among those taken captive.
He urged security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to rescue Zakka, his wife, their child and other Nigerians still being held by kidnappers.
Atiku said no Nigerian should be forced to plead for their life or the safety of their loved ones in the hands of criminals.
He noted that the incident had occurred amid mounting economic pressures, with households already struggling to cope with rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses.
According to him, insecurity has compounded the difficulties facing ordinary Nigerians by threatening their livelihoods, disrupting family life and imposing additional emotional and financial burdens on victims and their relatives.
Reacting to a video reportedly showing Zakka and his family in captivity, Atiku said the incident highlighted the devastating consequences of abductions on families and communities.
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“The disturbing video of Ahmed Zakka, reportedly abducted alongside his wife and infant child in Kaduna State, is a painful reminder of the insecurity that continues to threaten lives and tear families apart across Nigeria,” he stated.
Government Urged To Intensify Rescue Efforts
The ADC chieftain called on the government to move beyond assurances and implement a sustained response to the country’s security challenges.
He stressed the need for authorities to prioritise the rescue of abducted persons, strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and dismantle the criminal networks responsible for kidnappings.
Atiku maintained that Nigerians should be able to go about their daily activities, travel and raise their children without the constant threat of violence.
He also urged security agencies to ensure that Zakka, his wife, their infant child and other victims still in captivity are brought to safety.
“Every Nigerian deserves to live, work and raise a family without the constant fear of violence,” he added.