A fresh political storm erupted on Sunday as former Kano State Governor and national political figure Abdullahi Umar Ganduje firmly rejected claims linking him to the disappearance of social media commentator Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata.
The allegation, reportedly made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has triggered sharp reactions across political and civic spaces, with Ganduje describing the statement as “reckless, unproven, and politically motivated.”
In a strongly worded response issued by his media office, Ganduje dismissed any insinuation of involvement in Dadiyata’s disappearance, insisting that such a sensitive matter must not be reduced to political mudslinging.
“This is a grave issue that demands seriousness, not speculation,” the statement read. “Any claim must be backed by verifiable evidence. Throwing around allegations without proof only deepens public mistrust and compounds the pain of the family.”
Ganduje called for an evidence-based investigation into the disappearance, urging security agencies to remain professional and impartial in their ongoing inquiries.
The former governor cautioned political actors against weaponising the case for partisan advantage, warning that politicising the matter could obstruct the search for truth.
Observers say the exchange reflects the deepening fissures within political circles, as public figures trade accusations over one of the country’s most controversial unresolved cases.
Dadiyata, a vocal online critic, went missing under circumstances that have continued to generate national debate and international concern. Over the years, calls for transparency and accountability have persisted from civil society groups and rights advocates.
Ganduje emphasised that beyond political rhetoric lies a grieving family still seeking answers.
“The family deserves truth and accountability,” he stated. “We must focus on uncovering facts, not amplifying unverified narratives.”
Political analysts note that the latest clash underscores the sensitivity surrounding unresolved disappearance cases and the broader demand for institutional accountability.
The renewed war of words has once again drawn public attention to the unresolved status of Dadiyata’s case, with social media platforms witnessing heated debate following El-Rufa’i’s comments and Ganduje’s rebuttal.
As pressure mounts for clarity, calls are growing louder for security agencies to provide updates on investigative efforts and ensure transparency in the process.
For now, the controversy adds another layer to Nigeria’s complex political landscape — where allegations, counter-allegations, and demands for justice intersect in the court of public opinion.
But amid the political crossfire, one central issue remains: a missing citizen, unanswered questions, and a family still waiting for closure.
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