A retired Nigerian Army officer, Major General Abubakar Rabe, has died in captivity two weeks after he was abducted by bandits in Katsina State, plunging his family, the military community and the state into mourning.
The Katsina State Government confirmed the development on Saturday, revealing that the retired senior military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu, the government expressed deep sorrow over the tragic outcome, despite efforts by security agencies and state authorities to secure the General’s freedom.
“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.
The government described the late General’s death as a huge loss to his family, Katsina State and Nigeria, noting that his years of service to the nation would not be forgotten.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his condolences to the bereaved family and the nation, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting parts of the country.
According to the governor, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stronger collaboration among security agencies, government institutions and communities in the fight against insecurity.
Major General Rabe was abducted on May 30 while travelling to Katsina alongside his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, and their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. Their vehicle was reportedly ambushed by armed bandits along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
The retired military officer’s death has once again highlighted the growing threat posed by banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region, where kidnappings for ransom and attacks on travellers continue to raise concerns despite ongoing security operations.
