Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the reported abduction of Ahmed Zakka, his wife and their infant child in Kaduna State, urging security agencies to secure their immediate and safe release.
Atiku described a disturbing video reportedly showing Zakka as a painful reminder of the insecurity threatening lives and separating families across Nigeria.
In a statement, the former vice-president said no Nigerian should be forced to plead for their life or the safety of their family in the hands of criminals.
He expressed particular concern over the involvement of an infant in the incident, calling on relevant security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to rescue the abducted family and other Nigerians still held in captivity.
Atiku also linked the persistent insecurity to the economic challenges confronting Nigerian households, noting that rising costs of food, transportation and other essential goods had already placed significant pressure on families.
According to him, kidnapping further deepens hardship by disrupting livelihoods and imposing emotional and financial burdens on affected families.
He called on the government to move beyond assurances and implement a sustained response to insecurity by rescuing victims, protecting vulnerable communities and dismantling criminal networks responsible for abductions.
The former vice-president maintained that Nigerians should be able to live, work and raise their families without the constant fear of violence.
Atiku expressed solidarity with the Zakka family and other families affected by kidnapping, stressing that the protection of every Nigerian life must remain a primary responsibility of government.
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