The Katsina State Government has announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who passed away while being held by bandits, describing the development as a significant loss to both the state and the country.
The disclosure was made in a statement released on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, and shared with journalists.
According to the government, the retired army officer died due to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension during his time in captivity.
The statement noted that the state government, alongside security agencies, made numerous attempts to secure his freedom, but all efforts proved unsuccessful.
“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.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in the 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.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.”
The statement further revealed that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a “dark moment,” stressing that it highlights the need for a more robust and coordinated approach to tackling insecurity.
He sympathised with the late General’s family and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with security agencies to fight banditry across the state.
“The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace”, the statement added.
NEWSCLICKNG Online had earlier reported that the kidnappers of Rabe and his wife demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock reportedly recovered during security operations as conditions for their release.
Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped on May 30 while travelling within Katsina State.