Amnesty International has welcomed the directive issued by Olatunji Disu, the Inspector-General of Police ordering an investigation into the enforced disappearance of government critic, Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata.

In a statement on Sunday, the human rights group said “The decision to refer the matter to the Police Monitoring Unit follows petitions raising serious allegations against serving police officers in connection with the case.”

“The authorities must ensure that the investigation is prompt, impartial, transparent, effective, and capable of establishing the full circumstances surrounding Dadiyata’s enforced disappearance,” the group said.

Mr Dadiyata was abducted from his residence in Bamawa, Kaduna State, in August 2019, and his whereabouts have remained unknown since then.

The group said it remained at the forefront of calls for truth, justice, and accountability,noting that for nearly seven years, his family, friends, and supporters have continued to demand answers regarding his whereabouts and fate.

“Amnesty International urges the authorities to guarantee the independence of the investigation, protect all individuals connected to the case from intimidation or reprisals, and make the findings of the inquiry public.

“Where sufficient admissible evidence exists, anyone found responsible, regardless of rank or position, must be brought to justice in proceedings that meet international fair trial standards,” it added.

The human rights group further urged authorities to take concrete steps to address the wider pattern of enforced disappearances and ensure that victims and their families have access to truth, justice, and effective remedies.