DSS Reopens 2019 Kidnap Case Against El-Rufai

The Department of State Services (DSS) has reopened its investigation into the 2019 kidnapping of Abubakar Idris, also known as Dadiyata, a prominent critic of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. The investigation was reignited following the seizure of El-Rufai's passport at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja as he attempted to flee to Egypt after a brief visit to Nigeria.

Dadiyata was abducted from his home in Kaduna on August 1, 2019, and has been missing since. El-Rufai, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, reportedly claimed ignorance of Dadiyata's existence until his disappearance.

However, a source indicated that certain police officers confessed to being involved in the abduction, suggesting El-Rufai's potential complicity. The case has drawn significant international attention, with human rights organizations like Amnesty International involved.

El-Rufai is scheduled to meet with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) following the reopening of the case.