Nigeria’s insecurity challenges have persisted for decades, affecting civilians, security personnel, and even retired military officers.
Several retired generals, who were expected to enjoy peaceful retirement after years of service, have become victims of kidnapping, assassination, and other violent crimes. Some were killed, while others were abducted and forced to pay ransom for their freedom.
Below are some notable cases:
Major General Rabe Abubakar
Former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar, was abducted alongside his wife while travelling toward Katsina on May 30, 2026.
Their driver reportedly escaped despite sustaining gunshot injuries and later received medical treatment. As of the time of reporting, no official update had been provided regarding their whereabouts.
Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga
The former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was abducted in his hometown in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State on February 2, 2026, along with nine other civilians.
Reports indicated that a ransom was paid before his release, although conflicting figures emerged regarding the actual amount.
Major General Idris Alkali
Major General Idris Alkali was kidnapped and killed in 2018 while travelling between Abuja and Bauchi State.
His remains were later discovered in an abandoned well in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident occurred during unrest linked to community protests.
Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh
Former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, was assassinated in December 2018.
He was returning from his farm along the Abuja-Keffi Road when gunmen attacked his vehicle and opened fire, killing him.
Major General Richard Duru
Major General Richard Duru, a former security adviser to the Imo State governor, was abducted in September 2023 in Owerri, Imo State.
No confirmed information has emerged regarding his whereabouts since the incident.
Other Retired Military Officers Affected by Insecurity
Major Gen. Hassan Ahmed (July 15, 2021): Killed by gunmen along Lokoja-Abuja Road
Major Gen. Peter Ademokhai (April 9, 1994) : Killed during an armed robbery attack in Edo State
Major Gen. Joseph Aondo (June 14, 2007): Killed by gunmen in Abuja
Major Gen. Edet Akpan (2010): Kidnapped and later released in Akwa Ibom State
Major Gen. Mohammed Shuwa (November 2, 2012): Killed by suspected Boko Haram members in Borno State
Major Gen. Peter Unuode (March 20, 2013): Kidnapped, blindfolded, and chained in Delta State
Brig. Gen. Umar Uwuigbe (September 20, 2011): Hacked to death in Badagry, Lagos
Brig. Gen. Sylvester K. Iruh (April 2012): Killed by suspected hoodlums in Lagos
Brig. Gen. Harold Udokwere (June 2024): Killed by armed robbers at his residence in Abuja
Col. Samaila Inusa (March 2016): Killed by bandits on the Abuja-Kaduna Road
The cases highlight how insecurity continues to affect Nigerians across all social and professional backgrounds, including retired military officers who once served at the highest levels of the country’s security establishment.
