BREAKING: Abducted General Dies in Captivity

KATSINA, NIGERIA — The Katsina State Government has confirmed the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while being held in captivity by armed bandits.

General Abubakar, a highly prominent senior officer and former Director of Defence Information (DDI) at the Defence Headquarters, was ambushed and abducted alongside his wife on May 30, 2026, in the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

In an official statement released on Saturday by the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu, the government disclosed that the retired general passed away from severe medical complications, specifically diabetes and hypertension, worsened by the harsh conditions of his captivity.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement read.

“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.”

His tragic passing comes just days after a distressing viral video surfaced online showing the frail retired general and his wife pleading with the government to meet the demands of their abductors to secure their freedom.

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Reacting to the development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his deepest condolences to the family and the nation, describing the incident as a dark moment. He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to working with federal security agencies to wipe out banditry and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.