The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits who abducted him, describing the incident as a devastating loss to his family, the state and the nation.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, on Saturday.
According to the government, the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.
“The deceased retired general died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension,” the statement said.
The government noted that despite concerted efforts by the Katsina State Government and security agencies to secure his release, the retired officer did not survive the ordeal.
Mu’azu described the development as a monumental loss, given the late general’s service to Nigeria and his contributions to national security during his military career.
Reacting to the tragedy, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the death, describing it as a painful reminder of the persistent security challenges confronting parts of the country.
The governor extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Radda also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government, the military and other security agencies to tackle banditry and related crimes across Katsina State.
He assured residents that efforts would be intensified to apprehend those responsible for the abduction and bring them to justice.
The governor further called on citizens to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, stressing that collective action remains critical in the fight against insecurity.
The death of the retired Major General highlights the ongoing threat posed by armed bandit groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings, attacks on communities and other violent crimes continue despite sustained security operations.