Retired Gen. Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits' Captivity in Katsina

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has died in the custody of armed bandits in Katsina State, the state government confirmed on Saturday. The Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr.

Nasiru Muazu, announced the death in an official statement, calling it a significant loss to both the state and the nation. The retired military officer was abducted by bandits approximately two weeks before his death.

According to the government's account, he was taken alongside his wife in the Matazu area of Katsina State while traveling to attend a wedding ceremony. Medical complications stemming from diabetes and hypertension are attributed as the cause of death while in captivity.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed condolences to the family of the deceased officer, acknowledging the gravity of the incident. The state government noted that despite persistent efforts by both state authorities and various security agencies to secure his release, those attempts proved unsuccessful.

Abubakar's death adds to the mounting toll of abductions and violence associated with bandit activities across northern Nigeria. The circumstances of his captivity and death underscore the security challenges facing the region, where kidnappings have continued to affect civilians, government officials, and military personnel alike.