Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information and military spokesperson, has died in bandits' captivity in Katsina State.
The Katsina State government confirmed his passing on Saturday. He was abducted alongside his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, on May 30 while travelling to a wedding along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area.
Armed bandits ambushed their vehicle near Zakin Baure village. Their driver escaped with gunshot wounds. The couple was taken into a nearby forest.
Videos released from captivity showed the general and his wife pleading for government intervention. Bandits demanded prisoner releases and other conditions. Abubakar appeared with a swollen leg amid health concerns.
Reports indicate he succumbed to hypertension or heart-related complications while in captivity. His wife's current status remains unclear as of the latest updates.
Singer Paul Okoye, also known as Paul O, shared a strong reaction on social media. His post read: “Who da f*ck are we??? If a retired major general fit kpai like that... Who da f*ck are you???”
Okoye continued: “Major general with all his training, galant, strength and endurance incase he finds himself in such situation!! Still kpai of heart attack!!!! Then !! Who da f*ck are you? Who’s you???” The message featured shocked emojis, underscoring public frustration.
The Defence Headquarters expressed sorrow over the loss. It described Abubakar as a distinguished officer who contributed significantly to counter-insurgency and national assignments. The military noted it had withheld public comments during rescue efforts.
Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a dark moment. He vowed intensified action against banditry.
The abduction and death have renewed concerns about security in the northwest. Retired senior officers are increasingly targeted, raising questions about protection for all citizens. Public reactions on platforms like X reflect widespread shock and calls for better governance.
This case adds to broader discussions on banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria. No major new scandals directly linked to the general emerged, but the event exposes systemic vulnerabilities in handling high-profile abductions.
Authorities have intensified operations in response. Families and communities continue to grapple with the implications for personal safety regardless of status. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of persistent challenges in the region.
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