Kidnapped Nigerian army general Rabe Abubakar dies in terrorists captivity

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of the abducted retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the captivity of bandits.

Abubakar, who was military spokesman between 2015 and 2017, was abducted last Saturday, alongside his wife while travelling in Katsina state.

Describing the development as a tragic loss to the state and the nation in a statement issued by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, the Katsina state government said the retired senior military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.

The statement read, “The deceased retired general died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.” 

The government disclosed that despite sustained efforts by the state administration and security agencies to secure his freedom, the situation ended in tragedy.

Mu’azu noted that the abduction and subsequent death of the retired military officer represented not only a painful loss to his family and Katsina State but also a monumental loss to Nigeria.

Reacting to the incident, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the death of the retired general, describing it as a dark moment for the state and a stark reminder of the security challenges facing the country.

The governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul.

Radda also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to combat banditry and other forms of criminality across the state.

He assured residents that authorities would intensify efforts to ensure that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.

He added that the government remains resolute in its determination to eliminate banditry and safeguard lives and property across Katsina State.

The governor further urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies with credible information and cooperation in the ongoing fight against insecurity.

The death of the retired Major General underscores the persistent security crisis in parts of northern Nigeria, where armed bandit groups continue to carry out kidnappings, attacks on communities, and other violent crimes despite ongoing military and security operations.