By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Armed bandits have demanded a ransom of ₦500 million from the family of an abducted Kaduna photojournalist, Malam Umar Usman Iyale, raising fresh concerns over insecurity in the state. The demand followed his abduction last week from Danhonu II community in Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.Sources said Malam Umar, a veteran photojournalist, was kidnapped from his residence alongside several other residents during a late-night raid. The assailants reportedly contacted the victim’s family from captivity to insist on the ₦500 million ransom, describing the amount as non-negotiable.According to a journalist familiar with the case, Malam Umar spoke during a lengthy phone conversation from captivity, appealing for help to meet the ransom demand. “
They asked me to bring ₦500 million as ransom. Whatever you can contribute to help me, I will be grateful,” the source quoted him as saying.The situation reportedly worsened after one of the abducted victims was killed for failing to raise the full amount demanded. The source said the deceased had paid ₦30 million but was executed for not meeting the total ransom, heightening fear among other captives and their families.
Danhonu II, located within Millennium City, has previously recorded similar incidents, including the abduction of two journalists and their family members who were later released. Residents say the recurrence has deepened anxiety and exposed persistent security gaps in the area.Malam Umar, a retired staff member of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Kaduna station, and formerly of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Kaduna, was reportedly abducted at about 9:00 p.m. last Monday. Community sources said the attackers carried out the operation quietly but in a coordinated manner.
Witnesses said the gunmen gained access to the compound at a time when some members of the journalist’s family had not yet returned home. After demanding money and failing to obtain any, the assailants allegedly whisked Malam Umar away to an unknown location.Residents expressed concern for his safety, describing him as elderly and battling health challenges. They warned that prolonged captivity could worsen his condition and called for urgent intervention by security agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, colleagues, friends, and family members were reportedly mobilising resources in a desperate effort to raise funds and secure his release. Community members also said appeals had been made to relevant authorities to intensify rescue efforts.The abduction has renewed calls for stronger security measures in Chikun LGA and other vulnerable communities around Kaduna metropolis. Residents urged the government to deploy additional security personnel and strengthen intelligence-led operations to curb kidnapping and banditry. Efforts to secure Malam Umar’s release were said to be ongoing, with stakeholders appealing for swift action to prevent further loss of life among the captives.
