Ex-Army Spokesman Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits' Custody

Ex-Defence spokesman Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar died in bandits' captivity in Katsina after May abduction, state government confirms.

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Nigerian Defence spokesman who died in bandits' captivity in Katsina

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, has died while being held by bandits in Katsina State.

The Katsina State Government confirmed his death on Saturday, describing it as a tragic loss to the state and the nation.

What the government said

The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu.

According to the statement, the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

"The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension," the statement read.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a "dark moment," and said it underscores the urgent need for a stronger response to insecurity.

The government said several efforts were made by security agencies to secure his release, but the attempts were unsuccessful.

How he was abducted

Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State.

Suspected armed bandits took the couple along the Katsina–Matazu road in Matazu Local Government Area, with their driver sustaining a gunshot injury during the attack.

Last week, his abductors released a video demanding the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations, as conditions for the couple's freedom.

Reactions have been heavy with grief and anger over insecurity in the North-West, with many commenters questioning how a former Defence spokesman could not be rescued, and calling for stronger action against banditry.

The Katsina State Government says it remains committed to working with federal security forces to ensure those responsible are brought to justice, and extended condolences to the Abubakar family.

The status of his wife, who was abducted with him, was still being reported as in captivity as of June 13, according to social reports.