A retired Nigerian Army General, Rabe Abubakar, has died after being abducted by armed men in northwestern Nigeria, according to military authorities.
Abubakar, who previously served as the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, was kidnapped alongside his wife while travelling through Katsina State in late May. Reports indicate that the couple and their driver were attacked and taken away by gunmen while on their way to attend a wedding ceremony.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the persistent security challenges facing parts of northern Nigeria, where armed criminal groups frequently carry out kidnappings, attacks on rural communities, and other violent crimes.
Days before confirmation of his death, a video circulating on social media appeared to show the retired officer in captivity. He was seen alongside his wife and other hostages, with what appeared to be an injury to one of his legs.
The Nigerian military said it had remained silent about the abduction while rescue efforts were underway, hoping to secure the safe release of all those held captive. Following confirmation of his death, security agencies pledged to intensify operations aimed at tracking down those responsible and dismantling criminal networks operating in the region.
The whereabouts and condition of Abubakar’s wife have not been officially confirmed.
Military authorities described the retired General’s death as a tragic loss, praising his contributions to Nigeria’s security sector and his role in counter-insurgency operations during his years of service.
The incident highlights the ongoing insecurity affecting several states in northwestern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom continue to pose a major challenge despite repeated security operations by government forces.
By Viewers Corner News