Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in captivity.
The Katsina State Government announced the development in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu.
Rabe and his wife were kidnapped around the Matazu area of the state while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.
Before his death, a video circulated on social media showing the retired military officer and his wife in captivity. In the footage, the abductors demanded the release of three detained persons identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru.
Speaking in the video, Rabe’s wife appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of five local government areas to facilitate the release of the suspects to secure their freedom.
The retired general also called for peace, saying the abductors had expressed a willingness to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Confirming the development, Mu’azu said the former army officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.
He said, “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.”
According to the commissioner, the deceased died a natural death resulting from complications associated with diabetes and hypertension.
Mu’azu described the incident as a significant loss to the family, Katsina State and the nation, noting that Governor Dikko Radda had extended his condolences to the bereaved family.
He quoted the governor as describing the incident as “a dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a united front against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of communities.
As of the time of filing this report, it remained unclear whether the late general’s wife had regained her freedom or was still being held by the abductors.
