Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has promised a home, free medical care and continued psychosocial support for Malam Ahmed Abubakar Zakka, his wife, Nafisah, and their six-month-old daughter, Fatima, following their release from captivity.
The family was abducted from their home in Alrahus Estate, Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area, on October 6, 2026, and regained their freedom on October 15.
The abduction attracted public attention after a video circulated online showing Zakka holding his crying baby while an armed man pointed a gun at him. Reports said the kidnappers demanded ₦300 million in ransom, although the circumstances of the family’s release and whether any ransom was paid were not clearly established in the reports available.
In a statement on October 20, Governor Sani said he visited the family at a Kaduna State Government safe house, where they were receiving medical care after discharge from hospital. He said the state government would cover their medical expenses, provide them with a home and ensure continued psychosocial support to help them recover from the ordeal.
Sani thanked President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and security agencies for their contributions to securing the family’s return.
He also pledged stronger cooperation with security agencies and deeper community engagement to tackle banditry and other crimes, saying the family’s experience underscored the urgent need to protect lives and restore peace.