Malam Umar Usman, a veteran photojournalist, was abducted by suspected bandits from his residence in the Danhonu II community of Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The incident occurred on Monday night at approximately 9 pm, triggering a wave of renewed fear and anxiety among the local residents.

Usman, also referred to as Umar Usman Iyale, is a retired and respected staff member of Africa Independent Television (AIT) Kaduna Station, having previously worked with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Kaduna. According to community sources, the gunmen carried out the abduction in a quiet yet coordinated manner, gaining access to his compound. Reports indicate that the attackers demanded money from Mr. Usman, and when he was unable to provide it, he was forcefully taken away to an unknown location. Some accounts suggest he was alone at home at the time, while others mention some family members had yet to return.

The abduction has significantly heightened concerns for Malam Umar's safety, particularly as he is described by residents as elderly and battling undisclosed health challenges. Community members have expressed deep worry, stating that he is not someone who can withstand hardship for an extended period, leading to widespread distress in the area.

The Kaduna State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan, promptly confirmed the incident, stating that investigations have been launched to rescue the victim unhurt. The Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, immediately deployed a team of operatives to track the kidnappers and ensure the safe release of Malam Umar. The police have also urged members of the public to provide any useful information that could aid security agencies in their rescue efforts.

This kidnapping is part of a disturbing recurring pattern in the Danhonu II community. A community leader lamented the frequent attacks, which have reportedly forced many residents and landlords to abandon their homes, thereby impeding community development. The incident also brings back memories of the July 2024 abduction of two other journalists, AbdulGafar Alabelewe of The Nation newspaper and AbdulRaheem Aodu of Blueprint Newspaper, along with their families, from the very same community. They were subsequently released after seven days in captivity. Residents are now urgently calling for more decisive and sustained security action to curb the activities of criminal gangs and advocate for the strengthening of the Kaduna Peace Model to effectively address the persistent issue of kidnappings.