The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has strongly condemned the abduction and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits, describing the incident as a gross violation of the fundamental rights to life and personal security.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 16 June, 2026, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, said the killing reflects a disturbing deterioration in Nigeria’s security situation and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to tackle rising criminality.
Ojukwu said the Commission received news of the retired military officer’s death with profound sadness, noting that the tragedy occurred despite reported efforts by the Katsina State Government and security agencies to secure his freedom from captivity.
According to him, every citizen, irrespective of social status or background, is entitled to the protection of life, liberty and personal security as guaranteed by the Constitution and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a signatory.
The NHRC chief observed that the abduction and eventual death of a retired senior military officer highlight the extent to which insecurity has permeated Nigerian society, leaving even prominent individuals vulnerable to violent criminal attacks.
He lamented that homes, schools and communities across the country are increasingly becoming unsafe, while persistent cases of banditry and kidnapping continue to weaken public confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives and property.
Describing the incident as a national tragedy, Ojukwu said the loss extends beyond the bereaved family and the people of Katsina State, stressing that it should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to adopt more effective and sustainable security measures.
Against the backdrop of recurring attacks by armed groups, the NHRC renewed calls for serious consideration of the establishment of state police as part of broader efforts to address insecurity.
The Commission argued that decentralised policing could improve response times, strengthen intelligence gathering at the community level and bring law enforcement closer to the people. However, it emphasized that any state policing structure must be backed by strong legal safeguards, civilian oversight and strict adherence to human rights principles to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
Ojukwu also called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and death of the retired general, with a view to identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
He maintained that accountability remains critical to upholding the rule of law, delivering justice to victims and deterring future violations.
The Commission extended its condolences to the family of the late General, the Government and people of Katsina State, and Nigerians at large, while reaffirming its commitment to advocating policies and reforms aimed at protecting the rights to life and security for all citizens.
