The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits, describing the incident as a tragic loss to both the state and the nation.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, and made available to journalists.
According to the government, the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension during his captivity.
The statement noted that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, made extensive efforts to secure his release, but the attempts ultimately proved unsuccessful.
“The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar,” the statement said.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite the relentless and coordinated efforts of the state government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in tragedy.
“The deceased retired General died a natural death resulting from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a devastating loss to his family and Katsina State but also a monumental loss to the entire nation.”
Reacting to the development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a “dark moment,” saying it highlights the urgent need for a stronger and more coordinated response to the growing security challenges facing the state and the country.
The governor extended his condolences to the family of the late General and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to tackle banditry.
“The Katsina State Government remains committed to collaborating with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the people of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and guarantee the safety of all residents remains unwavering,” the statement added.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed retired Major General Rabe Abdulkadir rest in eternal peace.”
Last week, The Telegraph reported that the kidnappers had demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations as conditions for the release of the retired General and his wife.
Abubakar and his wife were abducted on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State.
