Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe Dies in Bandits’ Captivity, Katsina Govt Confirms

Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe has died while being held by bandits in Katsina State, the state government announced on Saturday.

Rabe and his wife were abducted about two weeks ago near Matazu while on their way to a wedding ceremony.

The Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, said the former military officer died from complications linked to diabetes and hypertension. He confirmed that government and security agencies tried to secure his release but the efforts failed.

“The Katsina State Government regrets to announce the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe while in captivity,” Mu’azu said in a statement.

Before the announcement, a video of the couple in captivity circulated online. In the footage, the general’s wife pleaded with the state government and community leaders across several local government areas to intervene. The kidnappers demanded the release of three men identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru.

Rabe, who spoke briefly, urged peaceful dialogue, saying the abductors had expressed willingness to negotiate.

Mu’azu described Rabe’s death as a major loss to his family, Katsina State and Nigeria. He said Governor Dikko Radda had sent condolences to the family, calling the incident tragic and a reminder of the urgent need to intensify the fight against banditry.

The governor, he added, restated his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling banditry and other violent crimes in the state.

As of press time, there was no official word on whether Rabe’s wife had been freed or remained with the abductors.