BREAKING: Retired Army Spokesman Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits’ Captivity, Katsina Govt Confirms

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Nigerian Army spokesman and former Major General, Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while being held captive by armed bandits after his abduction.

The confirmation was contained in an official statement issued by the Commissioner for Security and Internal Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, on Saturday.

According to the statement, the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, made extensive efforts to secure the safe release of the retired military officer. However, the rescue efforts ended tragically with news of his death in captivity.

The government disclosed that Major General Abubakar died due to health-related complications while in the custody of his abductors. He was said to have been battling underlying medical conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure.

Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, described the incident as a painful and monumental loss to the family of the deceased, Katsina State, and the nation at large.

Governor Radda noted that the tragic death of the former Army spokesman highlights the growing threat posed by banditry and other violent crimes, stressing the need for stronger and more coordinated action to tackle insecurity across the country.

He assured that the state government would continue to work closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the abduction and subsequent death of the retired military officer are identified, apprehended, and brought to justice.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying security operations and implementing measures aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in communities affected by banditry and related criminal activities.

Major General Rabe Abubakar served as Director of Army Public Relations and was widely respected for his contributions to the Nigerian military and national security.