Abducted Nigerian Military General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits’ Captivity Amid Growing Security Crisis, Wife’s Whereabouts Unknown
Late Major- Gen Rabe and wife
By Reporter
The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the captivity of armed bandits, describing the incident as a tragic loss to both the state and the nation.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu.
According to the statement, the retired senior military officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.
“The deceased retired general died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” the statement noted.
The government revealed that despite sustained efforts by the Katsina State administration, security agencies, and other stakeholders to secure his release, the situation ended in tragedy.
Mu’azu described the abduction and death of the retired military officer as not only a painful loss to his family and Katsina State but also a significant loss to Nigeria, considering his years of service to the country.
Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the death of the retired general, calling it a dark moment for the state and a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges confronting Nigeria.
The governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime across the state.
Governor Radda assured residents that authorities would intensify efforts to bring those responsible for the abduction to justice and strengthen ongoing operations aimed at protecting lives and property.
The tragic death of Major General Abubakar highlights the worsening insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where armed bandit groups continue to carry out kidnappings for ransom, attacks on rural communities, cattle rustling, and killings despite ongoing military operations.
Nigeria continues to face multiple security threats across different regions. In the North-West and parts of the North-Central region, banditry has displaced thousands of residents and disrupted economic activities.
In the North-East, insurgent groups remain active, while several states across the country continue to grapple with kidnapping syndicates targeting travelers, farmers, traditional rulers, and even high-profile individuals.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that the growing sophistication of criminal networks, porous borders, inadequate security infrastructure, and challenges in intelligence gathering have complicated efforts to tackle insecurity effectively.
The abduction and death of a retired Major General further underscore concerns about the ability of criminal groups to operate with impunity and the urgent need for stronger security measures nationwide.
Governor Radda also urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible intelligence and cooperating with law enforcement authorities in the fight against insecurity.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government did not provide an update on the condition or whereabouts of the late General’s wife, who was reportedly abducted alongside him, leaving concerns about her fate unresolved.
