Human rights organisation Amnesty International has welcomed the directive issued by the Inspector-General of Police ordering an investigation into the enforced disappearance of government critic, Abubakar Idris.
The directive, issued on 8 May 2026, mandates the Police Monitoring Unit to investigate allegations linking serving police officers to the disappearance of the activist, who has been missing since August 2019.
According to Amnesty International, eyewitness accounts provided by Dadiyata’s wife indicated that he was abducted from his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna State, by two armed men who concealed their identities.
The organisation said the investigation must be “prompt, impartial, transparent and effective,” stressing that authorities should ensure the inquiry is capable of uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the disappearance.
Dadiyata, a vocal government critic, was reportedly abducted from his home in Kaduna State nearly seven years ago, sparking sustained demands from family members, civil society groups and supporters for information regarding his whereabouts and fate.
Amnesty International noted that it has consistently campaigned for truth, justice and accountability in the case since the activist’s disappearance.
The group further urged Nigerian authorities to guarantee the independence of the investigation, protect all individuals connected to the case from intimidation or reprisals, and make the findings of the inquiry public.
It also called for the prosecution of anyone found culpable, regardless of rank or position, where sufficient admissible evidence exists, in line with international fair trial standards.
Amnesty International added that the Nigerian government must take broader measures to address the recurring issue of enforced disappearances and ensure that victims and their families have access to justice, truth and effective remedies.
