Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Army spokesperson who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State, has died while being held by bandits.
The Katsina State Government confirmed his death on Saturday, describing it as a painful loss to both the state and the country.
The confirmation was contained in a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu.
According to the government, the retired military officer died in captivity due to health complications related to diabetes and hypertension.
The statement said the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, made sustained efforts to secure his freedom, but those attempts did not yield the desired result.
The statement read, “The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in the 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 deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.”
The statement further quoted Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State as describing the development as a “dark moment,” saying it highlights the need for stronger and more coordinated action against insecurity.
The governor sympathised with the family of the deceased and reiterated the administration’s commitment to tackling banditry across the state in partnership with security agencies.
“The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace”, the statement added.
The late General’s abductors had reportedly demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly recovered during security operations before they would free him and his wife.
Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State.
