Abubakar Idris, widely known as Dadiyata, a Kaduna-based social media influencer, has been confirmed dead—six years after he was abducted from his home. The announcement came from Damilola Adekunle, a public commentator and independent investigator, who shared her findings on Facebook on Tuesday, June 10.
Dadiyata was taken at gunpoint from his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna State, on August 2, 2019. His disappearance sparked public outrage at the time, largely due to his vocal criticism of politicians, leading many to believe it was politically motivated. The hashtag #WhereIsDadiyata quickly gained traction, with social media users changing their profile pictures to his in protest and solidarity.
Adekunle had earlier launched a ₦10 million fund on May 4, 2025, to uncover the truth about his fate. Just over a month later, she announced that her investigation had confirmed he was no longer alive. “It is with a heavy heart that I announce that after thorough investigations, I can confirm that Idris Abubakar, popularly known as Dadiyata, is officially dead. #Dadiyata was killed,” she posted.
Dadiyata’s family, supporters, and human rights groups, including Amnesty International Nigeria, had repeatedly called on the government to take responsibility and provide answers. His mother had tirelessly sought justice before her death in 2022.
News of Adekunle’s findings triggered an emotional wave of tributes on social media. Many Nigerians took to Facebook and X to express grief, demand justice, and reflect on the broader issues of enforced disappearances in the country.
