Kaduna Family Kidnapped on October 6 Freed After 10 Days

Ahmed Abubakar Zakka, his wife, and their six-month-old daughter, Fatima, were kidnapped from their home in the Millennium City area of Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on October 6, 2026. Their release was confirmed on October 16, 2026, by a retired security officer who had been working with a team to secure their freedom.

At the time of the confirmation, the family was in a vehicle driven by the officer's driver, returning to Kaduna metropolis. The circumstances surrounding their release were not disclosed.

Following the abduction, a video showing Zakka and his daughter in captivity circulated on social media, provoking public outrage. Chikun LGA has experienced a high incidence of kidnappings, with criminal gangs frequently targeting local communities.

The Department of State Services had previously launched an intelligence-led operation after the abduction of 20 prospective NYSC members and a civilian in the area.