Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and a member of the House of Representatives, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, have called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue a family abducted by gunmen in Millennium City, Kaduna State.

The victims, identified as Ahmed Abubakar Zakka, his wife and their infant daughter, were reportedly taken from their residence. A video circulating on social media showed Zakka holding the child while an armed man pointed a rifle at him and threatened to shoot.

In the footage, Zakka appealed to Nigerians for assistance, saying the abductors were demanding ₦300 million for the family’s release. His wife was also seen pleading for help.

Reacting to the incident on Monday, Atiku described the video as a troubling reminder of the insecurity affecting communities across the country. He urged security agencies to act swiftly to secure the release of the family and other Nigerians being held captive.

The former vice-president also linked insecurity to the economic difficulties confronting households, noting that the rising costs of food, transport and other essentials were already placing pressure on families.

He called on the Federal Government to move beyond assurances and implement a sustained response focused on rescuing abducted persons, protecting vulnerable communities and dismantling criminal networks responsible for kidnappings.

Similarly, El-Rufai, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency, expressed concern over recurring abductions in Millennium City, particularly around the Dan Bushiya area.

He described the incidents as unacceptable and urged the Kaduna State Government, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, intensify security operations and ensure the immediate rescue of the victims.

The lawmaker also called for sustained measures to prevent further attacks and bring those responsible to justice. He urged authorities to extend protection to neighbouring communities, including Malali and Unguwan Rimi.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, Mansir Hassam, said he would respond to enquiries about the incident. However, no further response had been received at the time the report was filed.

The whereabouts of the abducted family and the outcome of rescue efforts were not confirmed in the report.