Retired General Kidnapped in Katsina Dies in Captivity

A retired Nigerian Army officer, Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in captivity, the state government has confirmed.

Rabe and his wife were kidnapped near the Matazu area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.

The former military officer had recently appeared in a video circulated on social media in which he and his wife relayed demands made by their abductors.

In the footage, the kidnappers reportedly demanded the release of three individuals identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru, as well as the return of seized livestock.

Speaking in the video, Rabe’s wife appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of several local government areas to intervene and facilitate compliance with the demands to secure their freedom.

The retired general also made a brief appeal, calling for peaceful engagement and stating that the kidnappers had indicated a willingness to embrace dialogue.

However, hopes for his safe return were dashed on Saturday when the Katsina State Government announced his death.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the government said the retired officer died from health complications while being held by his captors.

“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 read.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.”

According to the commissioner, the retired military officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

The government described the incident as a major loss not only to his family and Katsina State but also to the country.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended condolences to the bereaved family and described the development as a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting many communities.

The governor, according to the statement, called for renewed efforts by citizens and security agencies to confront criminal groups operating across the state and other parts of the country.

As of the time of filing this report, it remained unclear whether Rabe’s wife had regained her freedom or was still being held by the abductors.

The death of the retired general has once again drawn attention to the persistent threat of kidnapping and banditry in parts of northern Nigeria, despite ongoing security operations.