Retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar has died while in the custody of bandits in Katsina State, according to Nasiru Mu'azu, who confirmed the cause of death as complications from diabetes and hypertension. The former Director of Defence Information and his wife were travelling in a red Peugeot saloon from Kaduna to Katsina to attend a wedding when armed bandits opened fire on their vehicle. Their driver, Abdullahi Sa'idu, was injured in the attack but escaped and received medical treatment.
Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), stated in an interview with BusinessDay on Saturday that the death was not natural, arguing that Rabe Abubakar died because the state failed in its duty to protect citizens. He emphasized that no social status shields Nigerians from insecurity, asking, "When even a retired Major General can be kidnapped and perish in captivity, what hope remains for ordinary Nigerians?" He described the incident as a direct indictment of collapsing security across the country.
Hajiya Hannatu Mohammed Umar, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Katsina State Chapter, expressed deep concern over the ongoing captivity of Rabe's wife. She urged relevant authorities to intensify efforts for her immediate and unconditional release, noting the family had already suffered greatly. Fatima Sanda Kaita, current NAWOJ Katsina Chairperson, called the incident a heartbreaking reminder that no one is spared from the region's security crisis and urged all stakeholders to strengthen protection measures.
A retired Major-General who once spoke for the Army died in bandit captivity while the state insists his death stemmed from illness, not abduction. His wife remains in the hands of captors with no confirmation of rescue efforts or timeline for release. If a man tasked with projecting military authority could not be protected, the safety of ordinary residents in Katsina has no foundation. The demand for her release now stands as the only visible measure of accountability.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
