By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Bandits have released the corpse of the deceased former Army spokesman, Major General (retd) Rabe Abubakar who died after 42 days in captivity, reports thegazellenews.com
Sources told thegazellenews.com that the bandits also released the wife of the deceased general who was abducted alongside him.
The Katsina State Government has earlier confirmed the death of Major General Rabe Abubakar in bandits’ captivity, describing the development as a devastating loss to Nigeria, Katsina State and the family of the late military officer.
The government announced the tragic development on Satuday, 13 June, 2026, revealing that the retired general died while being held by his abductors despite sustained efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure his freedom.
In a statement issued by the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasiru Mu’azu, the government disclosed that the deceased died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.
According to the statement, authorities mounted relentless and coordinated efforts to secure the safe release of the retired officer, but the efforts ultimately ended in tragedy.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in 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 statement said.
The government noted that the abduction and subsequent death of the retired general represent a monumental loss, not only to his immediate family and Katsina State, but also to the nation he served with distinction.
Reacting to the development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his condolences to the bereaved family and Nigerians, describing the incident as a dark chapter in the state’s ongoing battle against insecurity.
“This is a dark moment and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities,” the governor said.
Governor Radda, however, reaffirmed the commitment of the Katsina State Government to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure those responsible for the crime are tracked down and brought to justice.
He stressed that the state’s resolve to defeat banditry and guarantee the safety of lives and property remains firm and unwavering.
The government further assured residents that ongoing security operations across the state would be strengthened as part of efforts to rid communities of criminal elements and restore lasting peace.
“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 late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar was widely respected for his service to the nation, and his death has added to growing concerns over the activities of armed bandits operating across parts of northern Nigeria.
