Retired Major General, Rabe Abubakar, has died while being held captive by bandits, with the Katsina State Government confirming the heartbreaking development after weeks of efforts to secure his release.
The state government announced the former senior military officer’s death in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, describing the incident as a devastating loss to both Katsina State and the nation.
According to the statement, Abubakar died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while in the custody of his abductors.
“The deceased retired general died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” the statement said.
The government said that despite sustained efforts by the state administration and security agencies to rescue him, those attempts ended in tragedy.
Mu’azu described the retired officer’s abduction and death as a painful loss not only to his family and Katsina State but also to Nigeria.
Reacting to the incident, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, expressed profound grief, describing the death as a dark moment for the State and a reminder of the country’s persistent security challenges.
The Governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
Radda also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with the Federal Government and security agencies to tackle banditry and other criminal activities across the State.
He assured residents that authorities would intensify efforts to bring those responsible for the abduction to justice.
The Governor added that his administration remains determined to eradicate banditry and protect lives and property throughout Katsina State.
He further appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible intelligence and cooperating in the fight against insecurity.
The death of the retired Major General highlights the continuing security crisis across parts of northern Nigeria, where armed bandit groups have continued to carry out kidnappings, attacks on communities and other violent crimes despite ongoing security operations.
