The Katsina State Government has officially confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while being held captive by bandits, describing the incident as a painful loss not only to his family but also to the state and the nation at large.
The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, and made available to journalists.
According to the state government, the retired senior military officer passed away due to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.
The government disclosed that several coordinated efforts were undertaken by both state authorities and security agencies to secure his freedom. However, despite sustained attempts and interventions, those efforts did not yield the desired result before his death.
The statement read: “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.”
Reacting to the development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a deeply troubling moment that highlights the urgent need for stronger and more coordinated measures to combat insecurity across the country.
The governor extended his condolences to the family of the late military officer and reiterated the state government’s commitment to working closely with federal authorities and security agencies in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.
“The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace,” the statement added.
The death comes weeks after the retired general and his wife were abducted on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State. Reports had indicated that the kidnappers demanded the release of three detained fighters as well as the return of livestock allegedly confiscated during security operations as conditions for the couple’s release.
The tragic development has renewed concerns over the persistent insecurity affecting parts of northern Nigeria and the increasing number of high-profile abductions carried out by armed groups. It also underscores the dangers faced by citizens despite ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in affected communities.
Major General Abubakar, who served the nation during his military career, is being remembered as a dedicated officer whose death in captivity has further intensified calls for more effective strategies to tackle banditry and kidnapping across the country.
