The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits, describing the development as a painful loss to his family, the state and the nation.
Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters, was reportedly kidnapped alongside his wife. Days before his death was announced, a video circulated online showing the retired military officer and his wife in captivity, with the general appealing to authorities to meet the demands of their abductors to secure their freedom.
Confirming the incident on Saturday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, said the retired general died while being held by his captors.
According to the commissioner, Abubakar succumbed to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension during his period in captivity.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ custody. 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 state government noted that several attempts were made by security agencies and relevant authorities to secure the retired officer’s release, but the efforts did not yield the desired outcome.
Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and Nigerians at large.
The governor described the incident as a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting parts of the country and stressed the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in the fight against banditry and other violent crimes.
The government further described Abubakar’s death as a significant loss, noting that he served the country with distinction during his military career and contributed to national security through various leadership roles.
His death has renewed concerns over the activities of armed groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria and the growing threat posed by kidnappings and violent attacks across the region.
