Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has died in the custody of bandits, according to a confirmation by the Katsina State Government. The state authorities have described his passing as a tragic and profound loss for Nigeria.
In a statement issued Saturday, June 13, Katsina State Commissioner for internal Security and Home Affairs
Nasir Mu’azu confirmed the tragic loss of the retired military general, who succumbed to complications from diabetes and hypertension.
Despite relentless rescue efforts by both the state government and security forces, Commissioner Mu’azu confirmed that attempts to secure his freedom were unsuccessful.
Mu’azu stated:
”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.
‘It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in the 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.
”The deceased retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
”His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country’.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State termed the tragedy a “dark moment,” declaring that it highlights the critical need for a stronger, unified offensive against insecurity.
While extending deep condolences to the late general’s family, Governor Radda vowed that the Katsina State Government will not relent in its partnership with federal forces to hunt down those responsible for this heinous act.
He strongly reassured citizens that the administration’s resolve to crush banditry and restore total security remains entirely unshaken.
‘‘Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed retired Major General Rabe Abubakar rest in eternal peace’’, the statement added.
Abubakar and his wife were abducted on Saturday, May 30, while traveling along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road (also referred to as the Karaduwa–Matazu road) within the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
However, in a tense development last week, the abductors demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock seized during military operations as strict conditions for the couple’s freedom.
