The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has officially directed the Police Monitoring Unit to launch a comprehensive investigation into grave allegations connecting two senior police officers, CSP Hussaini Gimba and CSP Hassan Gimba, to the disappearance and alleged killing of prominent social critic and lecturer, Abubakar Idris, widely known as Dadiyata. This directive stems from a series of petitions submitted on Friday, May 8, by Kano-based activist and human rights lawyer, Abba Hikima, which brought forward startling claims made by Muhammad Musa Kamarawa, a former Senior Special Assistant to the immediate past Zamfara State governor, Bello Matawalle.

Abubakar Idris, a respected lecturer and vocal social media activist, was abducted from his home in Barnawa, Kaduna, in August 2019. Since that time, his whereabouts have remained unknown, sparking persistent public outcry and demands for answers regarding his fate. The recent allegations have reignited nationwide calls for accountability and a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

According to Kamarawa's explosive testimony, which fueled the petitions to the IGP, the aforementioned police officers allegedly threatened him, explicitly stating that they had killed Dadiyata and others in his presence at Operations Yaki, Kaduna. Furthermore, reports detailed additional accusations by Kamarawa, who claimed that during an interrogation in 2021, these senior police officers threatened to kill him if he disclosed his relationship with former Governor Matawalle. Kamarawa also alleged instances of extortion, illegal detention, an unlawful search of his residence, and the seizure of his money and personal property without due process. He was reportedly coerced not to mention his connection with Matawalle and was threatened with the same fate that befell Dadiyata and Saminu S/Fada Gusau.

The law firm representing Abba Hikima stressed the critical importance of a transparent investigation. They argued that if the allegations were unfounded, such an inquiry would effectively clear the officers’ names. However, if the claims proved true, justice must prevail “irrespective of rank, office or influence.” The petitions underscored deep public concern over Dadiyata’s prolonged disappearance and urged the immediate constitution of an independent investigative panel to handle the sensitive matter.

In response to the mounting pressure and formal petitions, the Inspector-General of Police, through his Principal Staff Officer, CF Lateef Adio Ahmed, acknowledged receipt of the submissions. He confirmed that the matter had been swiftly referred to the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Monitoring Unit for prompt and decisive action, assuring the petitioners of the Force’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice and accountability.

Adding significant weight to the unfolding investigation, former Kano State governor, Musa Kwankwaso, issued a statement on Saturday calling for close surveillance of all individuals implicated in the ongoing probe. Reacting to the fresh revelations from the former aide's testimony, Kwankwaso emphasized the need to prevent any compromise to the investigation. He stated, “I have been made aware of the recent testimony by a former aide to a former state governor, in which he alleged that police officers claimed responsibility for the disappearance of Abubakar Idris Dadiyata in Kaduna.”

Kwankwaso highlighted his consistent advocacy for a thorough investigation since Dadiyata's abduction in 2019, expressing reassurance at the IGP’s directive. He commended Inspector General Olatunji Disu for this "decisive and long-overdue action." Beyond merely initiating an investigation, Kwankwaso urged security agencies to take proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of the process, specifically demanding that police authorities place all named individuals under close monitoring to avert any form of interference or obstruction. Furthermore, he called upon the government to ensure that if the allegations are confirmed and Dadiyata is found alive, he and his family receive adequate compensation for the immense trauma and suffering they have endured. Kwankwaso also lauded the general public for their sustained advocacy and resilience in keeping the case alive, and specifically praised Barrister Abba Hikima Fagge for his pivotal role in bringing about these latest developments. He conveyed hope that this renewed investigation would finally uncover the truth behind Dadiyata’s disappearance and deliver justice for the victim and his family.