Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Captivity

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, died in captivity from severe medical complications related to diabetes and hypertension, which were worsened by a lack of essential medical care in the harsh conditions of bandit enclaves in Katsina State. His death occurred during ongoing military operations in the northwest region of Nigeria.

Abubakar's wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, was abducted alongside him on May 29, 2026, and is still being held captive. The Katsina State Government, led by Governor Dikko Radda, has expressed optimism regarding ongoing multi-dimensional security efforts aimed at securing her release.

Security agencies are intensifying operations to dismantle the criminal elements involved in the kidnapping, particularly targeting the gang led by notorious bandit Kachalla Muhammadu. The Katsina State Police Command, represented by spokesperson Abubakar Aliyu, has launched aggressive search and rescue operations to ensure Hajiya Amina's safe return to her family.