Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has died while in captivity, two weeks after he was abducted by armed gunmen alongside his wife near the Matazu area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.
The Katsina State Government confirmed the development in a statement issued by the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, describing the incident as a painful loss to the family, the state, and the nation.
According to the government, the former military officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and the state government to secure his release.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” the statement said.
The government noted that extensive attempts were made to rescue the retired senior officer, but the efforts ultimately ended in tragedy. It added that his contributions extended beyond Katsina State and left a lasting impact on Nigeria.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed condolences to the family of the late general and Nigerians at large, describing the incident as a “dark moment” that highlights the urgent need for stronger collaboration in tackling criminal elements threatening communities across the country.
The state government also reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice, while intensifying efforts to combat banditry and improve security across Katsina State.
The death of the retired general has once again drawn attention to the persistent security challenges in northern Nigeria, where kidnappings and bandit attacks continue to affect communities, travellers, and prominent individuals despite ongoing military operations.
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