Uba Sani promises home and care for freed Kaduna family

The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, has promised to give a home and medical care to a couple and their baby girl after their release from kidnappers.

Ahmed Zakka, his wife Nafisah, and their six-month-old daughter Fatima were taken from their house in Millennium City. They were freed after spending nine days in captivity.

On Tuesday, the governor visited the family at a state government safe house where they are recovering after leaving the hospital.

"Their ordeal is a painful reminder of the human cost of insecurity and the solemn responsibility we bear to protect lives and restore peace to every community," the governor said.

He assured the Zakka family that their health and recovery would be a priority for his government in the coming months.

The Zakka family was kidnapped on 6 October from their home in Alrahus Estate, Millennium City, in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Their kidnapping drew national attention after a video surfaced on social media. In the video, Mr Zakka held his crying baby while an armed man pointed a gun at him. His wife was seen begging for help.

In the video, Mr Zakka asked Nigerians to help them escape, stating that the kidnappers wanted a ransom of ₦300 million.

The video caused widespread anger and renewed calls for urgent action from security agencies.

The family was released on 15 October after nine days, but it is still unclear if any ransom was paid.

Their kidnapping raised worries about the safety of people in Millennium City and nearby areas, where fears have grown due to kidnappings.

Mr Sani stated that the family’s release strengthened his government’s commitment to fight banditry and other crimes. He emphasized the need for better cooperation with security agencies and closer ties with communities.

"Every resident deserves to live without fear, and we will continue working to fulfil that obligation," he said.

The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for his personal involvement and concern for the safety of the family.

He also praised the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the country’s security agencies for their roles in securing the family’s safe return.

According to the governor, Mr Zakka expressed gratitude to both the federal and Kaduna State governments, along with the security agencies, for their help and support.

Mr Sani noted that the family appreciated the care they were receiving and felt hopeful as they began to rebuild their lives after the traumatic experience.

He reiterated his government's promise to support the family during their recovery, including providing medical, psychological, and social help to restore their sense of security.

The governor’s pledge comes as public concern over kidnappings in Kaduna State has increased, especially after the video showing the Zakka family with their captors.

While their release has brought relief to family and friends, this incident again highlights the risks families face in areas affected by kidnappings. It also shows the need for ongoing efforts to protect people and prevent further attacks.