Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), a former spokesman of the Nigerian Defense Headquarters who was abducted alongside his wife by terrorists in Katsina State has been confirmed dead.
The death of the retired general was confirmed by the Katsina State Government through a statement issued on Saturday by the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu.
According to the statement, the former Defense spokesman died from complications relating to diabetes.
Part of the statement reads:
“The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits captivity. 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.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late General and the country at-large. The Governor has described this incident as a “dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities.
“The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace.
Late Maj Gen Abubakar, a native of Katsina State was kidnapped on May 30, 2026. There is no information about the fate of his wife who remains in captivity alongside several other victims as seen in various online videos shared by the terrorists.
Late General Abubakar was the image maker of the Defense Headquarters between 2015 and 2017.