Former Defence spokesman and retired Major General, Rabe Abubakar, has died while in the custody of bandits who abducted him and his wife in Katsina State.
The Katsina State Government confirmed the development on Saturday, describing it as a tragic loss to the family, the state and the nation.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the government disclosed that the retired Army officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held captive by his abductors.
Abubakar had reportedly spent several months in captivity at an undisclosed location within the forests of Katsina State following his abduction by bandits.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy,” the statement said.
The government expressed deep regret over the incident, describing the death of the retired military officer as a painful reminder of the growing security challenges facing parts of the country.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his condolences to the bereaved family and Nigerians, characterising the incident as a dark moment for the state and the nation.
According to the statement, the governor said the tragedy underscored the urgent need for a collective and intensified response against criminal groups threatening peace and security across communities.
“The Governor has described this incident as a dark moment and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified response against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of our communities,” the statement added.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure those responsible for the abduction and death of the retired general are tracked down and brought to justice.
It also assured residents that efforts to combat banditry and safeguard lives and property across Katsina State would continue unabated.
The death of Abubakar, a senior military officer who once served as the face of Nigeria’s defence establishment, is expected to renew concerns over the persistent threat posed by bandit groups operating in parts of the North-West.
