Abubakar Idris, widely known by his pseudonym Dadiyata, was more than a name on social media – he was a powerful voice for justice, good governance, and accountability in Nigeria. An academic, social media activist, and fierce critic of governmental policies, Dadiyata earned both reverence and scrutiny due to his unfiltered political commentary.
He became popular through his persistent criticism of the Nigerian political elite, especially leaders associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Kano State Governor Umar Ganduje.
But his growing voice was silenced when, in August 2019, he mysteriously disappeared – an incident that highlighted the dangers faced by political dissenters in Nigeria.
Dadiyata Biography
| Full Name | Abubakar Idris (aka Dadiyata) |
|---|---|
| Age | 37 |
| Wife | Khadija |
| State of Origin | Kaduna State |
| Profession | Lecturer, Political Activist |
| Affiliation | Kwankwasiyya Movement |
| Known For | Political Dissent, Activism, Social Media |
| Disappearance | August 2019 (Declared dead after 6 years) |
Early Life and Background
Born in Kaduna State, Abubakar Idris grew up in a politically aware environment. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in political discussions and justice. These interests shaped his academic path and his eventual rise as a vocal advocate for social justice and accountability in Nigeria.
After completing his tertiary education, he took up a lecturing position at the Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina State, where he taught History of the English Language. He was respected by students and peers alike for his intelligence, integrity, and courage to speak truth to power.
Rise as a Political Activist
Dadiyata became prominent on social media, especially Twitter, where he consistently criticized government inefficiency, corruption, and human rights abuses. He was fearless in expressing his views against the ruling class and used his online platforms to demand better governance.
He was particularly known for:
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Denouncing unpaid salaries in Kogi State
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Criticizing President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration
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Challenging APC leadership and policies
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Exposing corruption in Kano State under Ganduje
Through his affiliations with the Kwankwasiyya Movement, he championed the ideologies of good governance, people-centered leadership, and justice. He believed in the power of social media to create political awareness among Nigerian youths.
Dadiyata’s Disappearance and Death
On the night of August 1, 2019, Dadiyata was forcefully taken from his home by unidentified men as he returned to his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna. Since then, he had not been seen or heard from. The Nigerian public and international human rights organizations raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the investigation into his disappearance.
After six long years of uncertainty, reports surfaced in 2025 that Dadiyata had been confirmed dead. Investigators revealed this heartbreaking update, marking the end of a years-long search and igniting fresh debates about the freedom of expression and the protection of activists in Nigeria.
His death sent shockwaves across the nation, especially among those who admired his courage and unwavering commitment to the truth.
Legacy and Impact
Dadiyata remains a symbol of resistance in the face of oppression. His life and work inspired a new generation of activists who continue to push for transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.
His bravery, though met with a tragic end, serves as a constant reminder of the risks faced by those who speak out in hostile political environments. Several groups have called for a renewed investigation to bring his abductors to justice and prevent similar incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who was Dadiyata?
A: Dadiyata, whose real name was Abubakar Idris, was a Nigerian lecturer and political activist known for criticizing government policies and advocating for good governance.
Q2: How old was Dadiyata?
A: He was 37 years old at the time of his disappearance.
Q3: Was Dadiyata married?
A: Yes, he was married to a woman named Khadija.
Q4: Where was Dadiyata from?
A: He was from Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Q5: What happened to Dadiyata?
A: He was abducted in August 2019 and declared dead in 2025 after six years of being missing.
Q6: What was Dadiyata known for?
A: He was known for his political activism, particularly his criticism of the APC government and advocacy for human rights.
Conclusion
Dadiyata’s story is one of courage, resilience, and tragic loss. His bold stand against injustice and his mysterious disappearance spotlight the dangers political activists face in Nigeria. Though silenced, his voice still echoes in the struggle for democracy and freedom. May his legacy inspire others to stand firm in the face of tyranny, and may justice one day prevail.
