Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits’ Captivity in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has announced the death of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits, ending weeks of uncertainty over his whereabouts.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, said the retired senior officer died from complications linked to diabetes and hypertension. He noted that despite “relentless and concerted efforts” by the state government and security agencies to secure his release, the situation ended in tragedy.

General Abubakar, a former military officer and his wife were abducted by armed bandits on May 30 while the couple were reportedly travelling towards Katsina on Saturday when gunmen intercepted their vehicle in Matazu Local Government Area and took them away.

Reacting to the development, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the death as a “monumental loss” not only to Abubakar’s family and Katsina State, but to the country at large. He called the incident a “dark moment” and said it underscored the urgent need for a “collective and intensified front” against criminal elements threatening peace in the region.

“His abduction and subsequent death remind us that we must remain united in the fight against banditry,” Governor Radda said in the statement. He extended his “deepest condolences” to the bereaved family and to the Nigerian Armed Forces community.

Dr. Mu’azu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working with the Federal Government and security forces to track down those responsible. “We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken,” he said.

The government did not disclose whether ransom negotiations had taken place or if any arrests have been made in connection with the abduction. Security operations in the affected areas are expected to be intensified, according to officials.

Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North-West, has faced persistent attacks by armed groups commonly referred to as bandits. The groups have been linked to kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling, and attacks on rural communities. The death of a high-ranking retired officer in captivity marks one of the most prominent cases in the state’s recent security challenges.

Funeral arrangements for the late General Abubakar have not yet been announced. The state government said its “thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time.”

May the soul of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar rest in peace.

PRESS RELEASE

13th June, 2026

*KATSINA STATE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES THE UNFORTUNATE PASSING OF RETIRED MAJOR GENERAL RABE ABUBAKAR RTD*

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.

DR. NASIRU MU'AZU,

Hon. Commissioner Internal Security & Home Affairs