The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who died while in the captivity of bandits, even as it vowed to intensify military operations against terrorists and other criminal elements across the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the late senior officer as a distinguished soldier whose contributions to national security and military development left an enduring legacy.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” the statement said.
According to the military, Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction in several capacities, including as spokesperson for various military formations before rising to become Director of Defence Information.
The DHQ noted that the retired general played key roles in counter-insurgency operations and the professional development of the Armed Forces, describing his commitment to duty and national unity as exemplary.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” it stated.
The military explained that it had deliberately refrained from commenting publicly on the officer’s abduction so as not to jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts involving security agencies.
“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” the statement added.
Describing the incident as a painful loss, the DHQ said it would strengthen the resolve of the Armed Forces to confront insecurity and protect citizens.
“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens.”
The military disclosed that operations across the country had since been intensified following a series of abductions, including that of the late general, with a renewed focus on dismantling terrorist and criminal networks.
“In response to a series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria, including that of Maj. Gen. Abubakar, ongoing operations have been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation,” the DHQ stated.
It assured Nigerians that sustained pressure would be maintained on criminal groups until peace and security are fully restored.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of the retired military officer in captivity, describing the development as a tragic loss to his family, the state and the nation.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasiru Mu’azu, the government disclosed that Abubakar died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while still being held by his abductors.
“The deceased retired general died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” the statement said.
The government noted that concerted efforts had been made by the state government and security agencies to secure his release before the unfortunate outcome.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed profound condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the incident as a dark moment for Katsina State and a stark reminder of the need to intensify the fight against banditry and other violent crimes.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to bring those responsible for the abduction to justice and strengthen security across the state.
The Atlantic Bell reports that Abubakar and his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, were abducted on May 30, 2026, when suspected bandits ambushed their vehicle near Zakin Baure village in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The couple was travelling in a Peugeot 406 when the attack occurred. Their driver survived after sustaining gunshot injuries during the incident.
