The alarming disappearance of a respected Islamic scholar from Abuja, Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, has sent shockwaves through his family and community. For over 25 days, his wife and children have been left in a state of agonizing uncertainty, desperately seeking answers about his whereabouts. Sheikh Abdulkadir, a prominent leader of the Fityanul Islam Tijaniyya sect, traveled to Abuja to resolve issues surrounding an alleged blockage of his bank account, assuring his family he would return the same day. However, he vanished without a trace, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions and a distraught family. This incident highlights growing concerns about why are people disappearing in Nigeria and the broader implications for citizens’ rights.
His wife, Hajiya Ramatu Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, recounted the last moments before his departure. She detailed how her husband, after providing for household expenses, left for Abuja with the promise of a swift return. The subsequent silence, marked by a perpetually switched-off phone, has plunged her and their children into deep distress. The emotional toll is immense, with Hajiya Ramatu describing sleepless nights and constant anxiety, trying to remain strong for her children despite her own overwhelming worry.
What happened to Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir? The Islamic scholar disappeared after traveling to Abuja to address a bank account blockage, which authorities later linked to an EFCC investigation involving a N2 million transfer. The case escalated when the anti-graft agency reportedly handed it over to the military, leading to his subsequent detention and disappearance.
The initial reason for his trip to Abuja was to unblock his bank account, which he was informed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was under investigation. His son, Sunusi Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, who accompanied him on the trip, shed more light on the unfolding events. Sunusi explained that the EFCC indicated a sum of N2 million deposited into his father’s account was under scrutiny. The Sheikh clarified that the money was a payment for prayers requested by an individual linked through an intermediary for personal life issues.
However, the situation took a dramatic and concerning turn. According to Sunusi, the anti-graft agency then declared the matter a “military case” and involved soldiers. They allegedly stated that the Sheikh had agreed to return the money, and that soldiers would come to question him. Since that fateful day, 25 days ago, Sheikh Abdulkadir has not been seen. This shift from an EFCC financial investigation to a military matter raises questions about the jurisdiction and inter-agency cooperation, particularly concerning EFCC vs military arrests Nigeria.
During this protracted period of absence, the family received only one brief call from the Sheikh, where he confirmed he was fine but provided no details about his location or the conditions of his detention. This brief communication, while a glimmer of hope, has only deepened the family’s anguish, as they remain completely in the dark regarding his legal status and well-being. They continue to grapple with the uncertainty, underscoring the urgent need for clarity.
The family vehemently denies any allegations circulating that the scholar was arrested for receiving money to pray for individuals planning a coup. Sunusi emphasized that no official body has communicated such claims to them, and they possess no knowledge of any coup-related activities. These circulating rumors only add to the family’s trauma and the complexity of the ongoing situation, making the search for truth even more critical.
This incident casts a stark light on the broader challenges surrounding human rights vs national security Nigeria. While national security is paramount, the rights of citizens, including due process and the right to communicate with family, must be upheld. The lack of transparency in such cases can erode public trust and create an environment of fear, discouraging individuals from seeking legal recourse or reporting issues.
Efforts to secure legal assistance and advocate for the Sheikh’s release are ongoing, but the lack of official information presents a significant hurdle. Understanding legal rights in Nigeria for citizens is crucial, especially when facing detention or investigation by state agencies. Families of missing persons often face immense emotional and financial strain, highlighting the need for robust legal aid and support systems.
To prevent future similar occurrences, there is a pressing need for improved protocols and accountability within security agencies. A comprehensive missing persons Nigeria report system, coupled with clear guidelines for arrests and detentions, could provide much-needed transparency and safeguard citizens’ rights. This would ensure that due process is followed, and families are not left in agonizing limbo, as is currently the case for Sheikh Abdulkadir’s family.
Looking ahead, discussions around human rights in Nigeria 2026 and legal aid Nigeria guide 2026 must prioritize the protection of citizens from arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances. The case of Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals when transparency and accountability are lacking. The family continues its fervent appeal to relevant authorities to either release Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir or at least disclose his whereabouts, bringing an end to their prolonged trauma and uncertainty over the Islamic scholar disappearance Abuja.
