Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State, has died while being held by bandits, the state government has confirmed.
The former military officer was kidnapped about two weeks ago near Matazu while travelling with his wife to attend a wedding ceremony.
His death was announced on Saturday by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, who said the retired general died from complications arising from underlying health conditions.
Before news of his death emerged, a video circulated online showing the retired officer and his wife in captivity. In the footage, the couple relayed demands made by their abductors, including the release of three individuals identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru.
The general’s wife appealed to the Katsina State Government and community leaders in several local government areas to intervene and facilitate their freedom.
Rabe, who spoke briefly in the video, urged all parties to pursue peaceful engagement, noting that the kidnappers had indicated a willingness to embrace dialogue.
However, in a statement issued on Saturday, Mu’azu disclosed that efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure the retired officer’s release were unsuccessful.
“The Katsina State Government regrets to announce the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe while in captivity,” the commissioner said.
He explained that the deceased succumbed to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.
According to him, the death of the retired military officer represents a significant loss to his family, Katsina State and the nation.
Mu’azu added that Governor Dikko Radda had conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, describing the incident as tragic and a reminder of the urgent need to strengthen the fight against criminal elements terrorising communities.
The governor, he said, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling banditry and other violent crimes across the state.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation on whether the late general’s wife had regained her freedom or remained in the custody of the abductors.
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