![National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. [PHOTO CREDIT: Official X handle of Mr Ribadu | https://x.com/NuhuRibadu/status/1706387205881581715?s=20]](https://i0.wp.com/media.premiumtimesng.com/wp-content/files/2024/02/Nuhu-Ribadu-NSA.jpg?fit=1883%2C1062&ssl=1)
The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has promised to provide a home and medical care for a couple and their infant daughter, following their release by kidnappers.
Ahmed Zakka, his wife, Nafisah, and their six-month-old daughter, Fatima, who were abducted from their home in Millennium City, regained freedom after nine days.
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On Tuesday, the governor visited the family members at a state government safe house where they are resting following their discharge from hospital.
“Their ordeal is a painful reminder of the human cost of insecurity and the solemn responsibility we bear to protect lives and restore peace to every community,” the governor said.
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He assured the family that their wellbeing and recovery would remain a priority for his administration in the coming months.
The abduction
The Zakka family members were abducted on 6 October from their residence in Alrahus Estate, Millennium City, in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Their abduction gained nationwide attention after a video circulated on social media showing Mr Zakka holding his crying infant daughter while an armed man pointed a rifle at him. His wife was also seen pleading for help.
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In the video, Mr Zakka appealed to Nigerians to assist in securing their freedom, disclosing that the abductors were demanding a ransom of ₦300 million.
The footage triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for urgent intervention by security agencies.
The family regained their freedom on 15 October after nine days, but the circumstances remain unclear, including whether a ransom was paid.
Their abduction also renewed concerns about the safety of residents in Millennium City and neighbouring communities, where kidnappings have heightened fears among residents.
Uba Sani pledges stronger security measures
Mr Sani said the family’s release had strengthened his administration’s resolve to tackle banditry and other criminal activities through closer cooperation with security agencies, improved security coordination and deeper engagement with communities.
“Every resident deserves to live without fear, and we will continue working to fulfil that obligation,” he said.
The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for his personal engagement and concern for the family’s safety.
He also commended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the nation’s security agencies for their contributions to securing the family’s safe return.
Family appreciates support
According to the governor, Mr Zakka expressed gratitude to the federal and Kaduna State governments, as well as security agencies, for their efforts and compassion.
Mr Sani said the family’s appreciation for the care they were receiving and their confidence in recovery offered encouragement as they began rebuilding their lives after the ordeal.
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He reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the family throughout their recovery, including providing the medical, psychological and social assistance needed to restore their sense of security.
The governor’s latest pledge comes amid renewed public concern over kidnapping in Kaduna State, particularly following the circulation of the video showing the Zakka family in the hands of their abductors.
While their release has brought relief to relatives and sympathisers, the incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by families in communities affected by kidnapping and the need for sustained efforts to protect residents and prevent further attacks.
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