Veteran Photojournalist Abducted in Kaduna

Kaduna, Nigeria — January 6, 2026 (9:00 p.m.) — A veteran photojournalist was abducted from his home in the Danhonu II area of Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The incident occurred late Monday evening when armed men stormed his residence, leaving neighbours terrified and prompting authorities to launch a search operation. Guardian Nigeria

The abduction has sparked concern across Kaduna, highlighting ongoing insecurity and the risks faced by journalists working in northern Nigeria. This report examines the events leading to the abduction, reactions from authorities, the community impact, and the implications for press freedom.

The Incident: Veteran Photojournalist Abducted in Kaduna

On the night of January 6, 2026, neighbours heard unusual sounds outside Malam Umar’s property. Within minutes, a group of armed men entered his compound. Witnesses described the assailants moving quickly and leaving with the journalist in a waiting vehicle around 9:00 p.m. Vanguard Nigeria

Residents reported that the attackers acted with precision. Some family members were absent, which may have made the operation easier. One neighbour stated, “Everything happened so fast. One moment he was inside, the next, the gunmen had taken him away.” The assailants reportedly demanded ransom before forcibly removing him from the home. Blueprint NG

The swift action of the gunmen underscores their planning and the challenges local communities face in defending against such attacks. Residents described the journalist as elderly, heightening fears for his safety.

Life and Work of the Veteran Photojournalist

Malam Umar served as a photojournalist for the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and Africa Independent Television (AIT). Over decades, he documented social issues, community events, and conflicts across Kaduna State. His dedication earned him respect from colleagues, community members, and media organizations.

Despite retiring from active duty, he remained active in local journalism networks. His work often highlighted everyday challenges in communities, providing visibility to stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. The abduction has sent shockwaves through media circles and local residents, who see him as a respected figure.

Security Context in Kaduna

Kidnappings in northern Nigeria have increased in recent years. Analysts note that armed groups exploit gaps in security infrastructure. Residents in Millennium City have previously raised concerns about safety, citing past incidents of abduction in the area. Tribune Online

Authorities confirmed that tactical teams were deployed to track the kidnappers. Security experts emphasize that such abductions are often well-planned and require coordinated responses from police, local vigilantes, and community leaders.

Authorities’ Immediate Response

By Tuesday morning, the Kaduna State Police Command acknowledged the abduction and said a rescue operation had begun. Officers were deployed to track the perpetrators, while residents were asked to provide information that might help locate the journalist. Ripples Nigeria

Patrols and checkpoints were established, and intelligence teams interviewed witnesses. Despite assurances from officials, tension remained high in Danhonu II, as residents feared further attacks.

Impact on Press Freedom

The abduction has implications beyond Kaduna. Journalists face heightened risks, and such incidents create a chilling effect on free reporting. Civil society organizations, including Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists, monitor these events and call for protective measures for media workers.

Press freedom relies on journalists being able to operate safely. Abductions of seasoned media professionals threaten not only individual safety but also access to reliable information for the public.

Community Reactions

Residents expressed deep concern. An elder explained, “We have watch posts and neighbourhood vigilance, but armed men are hard to stop without proper support.” Others noted that recurring kidnappings disrupt daily life, causing fear and economic consequences.

Parents now hesitate to allow children to play outside at night, while businesses experience reduced activity due to security concerns. Community groups continue to urge authorities for consistent engagement and transparency in rescue efforts.

Coordinated Actions Underway

Security agencies, local vigilantes, and community leaders are collaborating. Roadblocks were set up at key junctions, and verified updates are shared through social channels to prevent misinformation. Civil society groups emphasize long-term strategies, combining policing, community engagement, and economic opportunities to reduce kidnapping risks.

For more context on kidnapping trends in Nigeria, see the Nigeria Security Tracker.

Current Status and Outlook

As of this report, the veteran photojournalist remains in captivity. Authorities continue to negotiate and plan rescue operations. Families and communities remain vigilant, hoping for a safe resolution.

The abduction highlights the urgent need for improved security and continued protection for journalists. Preventing future incidents will require sustained efforts from all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and local communities.

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Summary: On January 6, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a veteran photojournalist was abducted in Danhonu II, Millennium City, Kaduna. The operation, carried out by armed men, left residents anxious and authorities mobilizing search efforts. The incident underscores ongoing security challenges and the pressing need to protect journalists and uphold press freedom.