Suspected bandits have kidnapped veteran photojournalist Malam Umar Usman Iyale from his home in Danhonu II, Millennium City in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, triggering renewed fear among residents of the fast-growing estate community on the outskirts of Kaduna metropolis.
Community sources said Iyale, a retired staff member of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Kaduna Station, and formerly with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Kaduna, was abducted at about 9:00 p.m. on Monday. Residents described the operation as quiet but coordinated, alleging the assailants gained access to the compound at a time some members of the family were away.
Witnesses said the kidnappers initially demanded money and, after finding none, forced the elderly journalist away to an unknown location. Neighbours said anxiety is heightened by concerns about Iyale’s age and fragile health, with residents urging security agencies to intensify efforts to secure his release.
Kaduna State Police spokesman DSP Mansir Hassan confirmed the incident, saying the Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, had deployed operatives to track the perpetrators and rescue the victim. “We are making concerted efforts to rescue the victim unhurt,” Hassan said.
The abduction has revived memories of July 2024, when gunmen kidnapped two journalists from the same Millennium City axis — Abdulgafar Alabelewe (The Nation) and AbdulRaheem Aodu (Blueprint) — alongside family members, a case that drew condemnation from the NUJ and press freedom groups before the victims were later released.
Residents say repeated attacks have driven some landlords to abandon properties and slowed development, calling for more sustained security presence and stronger implementation of Kaduna’s broader peace and security measures.
