The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reacted to the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while in the custody of kidnappers after being abducted in Katsina State.
The military high command described the incident as a tragic loss to the nation and pledged to intensify ongoing operations aimed at crushing criminal and terrorist networks across the country.
Major General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was kidnapped alongside his wife while travelling through Katsina State in May 2026.
Days after the abduction, a video surfaced on social media showing the retired general and his wife appealing for help. In the footage, the couple relayed the demands of their captors, who reportedly sought the release of detained bandits and seized livestock in exchange for their freedom.
Confirming the former military officer’s death on Saturday, the Defence Headquarters expressed sadness over the development and paid tribute to his years of service to the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction in several strategic positions during his career.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” the statement said.
According to the military, the late officer made significant contributions to national security, military professionalism and counter-insurgency operations during his years in service.
The DHQ noted that Abubakar’s dedication to duty and commitment to Nigeria’s unity remained an inspiration to serving and retired personnel of the Armed Forces.
The military also explained why it had remained silent since news of the abduction emerged, stating that public comments were deliberately withheld to avoid jeopardising rescue efforts being carried out by security agencies.
According to the statement, every available operational resource was deployed in an attempt to secure the retired general’s safe release.
“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” the military said.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Armed Forces vowed to intensify military operations against bandits, kidnappers and terrorist groups operating across the country.
The DHQ stated that the death of Major General Abubakar, alongside a growing number of abduction cases nationwide, has strengthened the resolve of security agencies to track down perpetrators and dismantle criminal networks threatening national security.
“In response to a series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria, including that of Major General Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation,” the statement added.
The military reassured Nigerians that it would remain committed to restoring peace and security across the country while honouring the legacy of the late senior officer.
Major General Abubakar’s death has continued to attract nationwide reactions, with many describing it as a painful reminder of the security challenges facing parts of the country.
