The Defence Headquarters has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who died in captivity after being abducted by bandits.
Grassroots Parrot reports that Abubakar was reportedly kidnapped alongside his wife in May while travelling through Katsina State.
A video that surfaced on June 6 showed the retired general and his wife appealing to the Katsina State Government for the release of detained bandits and seized livestock.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, described the retired officer’s death as a tragic loss to the nation and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” Uba said.
The military noted that Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction in several capacities, including as spokesman for military formations and the Armed Forces, contributing significantly to counter-insurgency operations, military professionalism, and national development.
According to the statement, the Defence Headquarters deliberately refrained from making public comments on the abduction while rescue efforts were ongoing.
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“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” Uba stated.
The military high command said the incident had reinforced its determination to intensify operations against insecurity across the country.
“In response to a series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria, including that of Maj. Gen. Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation,” the statement added.
The Armed Forces assured Nigerians of its commitment to restoring peace and security across the country and vowed not to relent until criminal elements are brought to justice.