The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered an investigation into the disappearance and alleged killing of Abubakar Idris, known as Dadiyata, directing the Police Monitoring Unit to look into claims involving two senior police officers, CSP Hussaini Gimba and CSP Hassan Gimba. The move follows petitions submitted on Friday by Kano-based activist and human rights lawyer Abba Hikima. The petitions, addressed to the IGP, reference allegations made by Muhammad Musa Kamarawa, former Senior Special Assistant to ex-Zamfara governor Bello Matawalle. Kamarawa claims the two officers admitted to killing Dadiyata and others in his presence at Operations Yaki, Kaduna.
One petition states that if the allegations are false, a transparent probe would clear the officers' names. If true, it insists justice must proceed "irrespective of rank, office or influence." Public concern over Dadiyata's fate has persisted since his abduction from his home in Barnawa, Kaduna, in August 2019. His case remains unresolved and has drawn significant attention.
The IGP's Principal Staff Officer, CF Lateef Adio Ahmed, confirmed the petitions were received and referred to the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Monitoring Unit for immediate action. The letter to the petitioners affirms the Force's commitment to justice and accountability. No timeline for the probe's completion has been provided.
The IGP has ordered a probe into two senior officers accused of involvement in Dadiyata's killing, yet both remain in service while the man they allegedly threatened is left without answers. Dadiyata was taken in 2019 from Kaduna, and the officers named in the petition have not been suspended. The investigation's outcome will determine whether the police are capable of holding their own to account. Until then, the promise of accountability rings hollow for those demanding justice.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
