Katsina Government confirms death of former army officer
Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in captivity.
The Katsina State Government confirmed his death in a statement issued on Saturday, June 13, by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasiru Muazu. According to the statement, the retired military officer died from health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension during his ordeal.
The government expressed deep sadness over the tragic development. It noted that security agencies and state authorities made extensive efforts to secure his freedom, but those efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful.
Government mourns national loss
Describing the incident as heartbreaking, the state government said the death of the retired general was a significant loss to his family, Katsina State and Nigeria.
“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 read.
Furthermore, officials stressed that the unfortunate incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing parts of the country. They also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting security operations aimed at protecting lives and property.
Bashir Ahmad reacts to Major General Abubakar Rabe’s death
Bashir Ahmad, the former presidential aide to late ex- president Muhammadu Buhari, mourns the death of Major General Abubakar Rabe’s death in the captivity of his abductors. He wrote on his X account:
“The tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in the captivity of bandits is a heartbreaking national tragedy and a stark reminder of the urgent security challenges facing our country. It is disturbing that a man who dedicated his life to serving and defending Nigeria could become a victim of banditry. His death should not be treated as just another statistic but as an answer wake-up call for stronger and more decisive action against those terrorist bandits and all those behind them. May Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, comfort his family and bring lasting peace and security to our nation. Ameen.”
Governor Radda calls for stronger security collaboration
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his condolences to the deceased’s family and the nation. He described the development as a dark moment for Katsina State and Nigeria.
The governor emphasised the need for stronger cooperation among security agencies, communities and relevant stakeholders to address insecurity more effectively.
Major General Rabe was abducted on Saturday, May 30, while travelling to Katsina. He was accompanied by his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, and their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. Their vehicle came under attack along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area, where armed bandits ambushed them.
His death has renewed concerns over the safety of travellers and the growing threat posed by criminal groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.
