Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who died while being held captive by bandits in Katsina State. The retired military officer, who once served as one of the country’s most prominent military spokespersons, reportedly passed away after weeks in the custody of his abductors.
The Katsina State Government confirmed the tragic development on Saturday, revealing that the former army general died while efforts were ongoing to secure his freedom. According to government officials, Abubakar succumbed to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension during his captivity. Authorities stated that despite coordinated efforts by security agencies and the state government to negotiate and secure his release, the situation ended in tragedy.
Major General Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife while travelling through Katsina State in late May. His kidnapping sparked national concern, particularly because of his distinguished military career and his previous role as the public face of Nigeria’s defence establishment. The retired officer had served as Director of Defence Information, where he was responsible for communicating military operations and security developments to the public. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Reports indicate that before his death, a viral video surfaced showing the retired general appealing for assistance and urging authorities to meet the demands of his captors in exchange for his freedom. The heartbreaking footage intensified public anxiety over the growing insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria and highlighted the vulnerability of even high-profile citizens to criminal gangs operating across the region.
Reacting to the incident, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the death as a dark and painful moment for the state and the nation. The government extended condolences to the family of the late general and stressed that his passing represents a significant loss not only to his loved ones but also to Nigeria’s security community. Officials further pledged to continue working with federal authorities and security agencies to track down those responsible and strengthen efforts against banditry.
The death of Major General Abubakar has reignited concerns over the persistent security crisis affecting several northern states, where kidnapping for ransom and bandit attacks remain major threats despite ongoing military operations. Many Nigerians have expressed outrage that a retired senior military officer could be abducted and held for weeks without being rescued, raising fresh questions about the effectiveness of current strategies against armed criminal groups.
As tributes continue to pour in from military personnel, government officials, and concerned citizens, the late general is being remembered for his years of service to the nation and his contributions to Nigeria’s defence communications. His tragic death stands as yet another stark reminder of the security challenges confronting the country and the urgent need for stronger measures to protect lives and restore peace across affected communities.
