The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former military spokesperson, while being held captive by bandits, describing the incident as a devastating loss to both the state and the nation.
The announcement was made on Saturday in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu. According to the government, the retired army officer died from health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension during his captivity.
The state government said it worked closely with security agencies and made sustained efforts to secure the former general’s freedom, but all attempts ultimately proved unsuccessful.
In the statement, the government expressed deep sorrow over the development, noting that Abubakar’s death was a significant tragedy for his family, Katsina State, and Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a dark moment for the state, saying it highlights the urgent need for stronger and more coordinated measures to tackle the growing security challenges posed by banditry and other criminal activities.
The governor extended his condolences to the family of the late military officer and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security operations aimed at restoring peace and bringing those responsible for the abduction to justice.
He also assured residents that the government remains determined to work with the Federal Government and security agencies to eliminate banditry and improve security across the state.
Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State.
Reports last week indicated that the kidnappers had demanded the release of three detained associates and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations as conditions for the couple’s release.
The death of the retired major general has sparked renewed concerns over the worsening insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where bandit attacks, kidnappings, and violent crimes continue to pose serious threats to communities and travellers.
