Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife by armed bandits in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in captivity.
The tragic development was confirmed by the Katsina State Government on Saturday, bringing a heartbreaking end to efforts aimed at securing his release.
The retired military officer and his wife were kidnapped around the Matazu area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony. Days after their abduction, a video surfaced online showing the couple in captivity as their abductors outlined conditions for their release.
In the four-minute video, the kidnappers demanded the release of three suspected bandits identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru. According to the general’s wife, two of the men were being held in Jikamshi, while the third was detained in Kano State.
She appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of several local government areas to intervene and meet the demands of the abductors in order to secure their freedom.
Speaking briefly in the video, Major General Abubakar called for peace and dialogue, noting that the captors had indicated a willingness to engage in discussions.
However, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and the state government, the retired army officer did not survive captivity.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the Katsina State Government disclosed that the former military commander died from health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.
“The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar,” the statement read.
“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.”
According to the government, medical complications arising from the retired general’s long-standing diabetes and hypertension ultimately claimed his life while he remained in the custody of the kidnappers.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a dark moment for Katsina State and Nigeria, extending condolences to the family of the deceased and calling for stronger collective action against insecurity.
The governor said the retired officer’s death represents not only a loss to his family but also a significant loss to the nation he served for decades.
As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts and condition of Major General Abubakar’s wife remain unclear, with authorities yet to confirm whether she has regained her freedom or remains in captivity.
