The long and painful mystery surrounding the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, has taken a tragic turn. On Tuesday, June 10, social critic and public investigator Damilola Adekunle revealed that Dadiyata is dead. This comes six years after he was taken from his home by armed men.
Dadiyata, a well-known Kaduna-based social media influencer and university lecturer, was abducted on August 2, 2019, at his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna State.
His family and supporters had long feared he was targeted for his outspoken criticism of politicians. Many Nigerians believed his kidnapping was politically motivated.
Social Media Campaign and Public Outcry
After his abduction, the hashtag #WhereIsDadiyata flooded Nigerian social media. His followers demanded accountability from security agencies and the Kaduna State Government.
Many Nigerians replaced their profile pictures with Dadiyata’s photo in solidarity and as a call for justice.
Despite the pressure, authorities offered no clear explanation. Human rights groups and activists, including Amnesty International Nigeria, continuously demanded answers. The organization also publicly criticised the government’s lack of transparency in handling the case.
His mother was among those who never gave up hope. She kept seeking justice until her death in 2022. Her grief became a symbol of the pain many Nigerian families endure while waiting for answers from the state.
Confirmation and Claims of Death
Damilola Adekunle had launched a ₦10 million investigative campaign on May 4, 2025. The goal was to gather facts and credible tips on what happened to Dadiyata. One month later, she announced the heartbreaking outcome.
“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 on Facebook.
While details of how or where he died remain unclear, Adekunle insisted that her team’s research was complete and reliable. Her announcement triggered an outpouring of grief and anger on social media. Nigerians took to X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to pay their respects and express their outrage.
National Questions and Unresolved Pain
Dadiyata’s case has raised long-standing concerns about freedom of expression in Nigeria. Many believe his death is a sign of how dangerous it can be to speak out. He had used his platform to criticise political leaders and expose injustices, gaining a large online following.
Though no official statement has been released by law enforcement, the public is now demanding answers more urgently. Questions remain about who abducted him, where he was kept, and why no one was held responsible over the years.
There are renewed calls for a transparent investigation and justice for those involved in his death. His supporters continue to demand that those responsible be held to account, so that Dadiyata’s legacy is not forgotten.
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