The Nigerian military confirmed that retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has died while in captivity. The former army spokesman was abducted by armed gunmen in Katsina State on May 30 alongside his wife and driver.
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction. However, the incident underscores the escalating security crisis in north-west Nigeria, where criminal gangs known as "bandits" frequently execute kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling, and community attacks. Militant jihadist cells also operate in the area, including a camp targeted by a US airstrike in Sokoto State last December.
Local reports indicate Abubakar was attacked while traveling to a wedding. Days before his death, a video surfaced showing him with an apparent leg injury, seated with other hostages. The military withheld public comment during rescue operations but stated that efforts have since intensified to dismantle terrorist networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
Abubakar's wife remains missing. The Armed Forces described the loss of the 61-year-old general as tragic, citing his immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations and his commitment to national unity.