Wife Of Abducted Retired General Reportedly Released

The current wave of kidnappings across the country has taken a disturbing turn following the death of a former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, retired Maj. Gen. Abubakar Rabe, in the custody of bandits in Katsina State.

Rabe’s wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, who was abducted alongside him, was reportedly released alive to the Katsina State Government.

A source quoted by TheNiche said the late general’s body was handed over to the state government and moved to Kaduna for burial.

“Just got information that the bandits have handed over the corpse of Major General Rabe Abubakar to Katsina State government alongside his wife, who’s alive, and the corpse is on the way to Kaduna for burial later today,” the source said.

Katsina Confirms Death

The Katsina State Government confirmed Rabe’s death in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Muazu.

Muazu said the retired senior military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and high blood pressure while in captivity.

The statement read, “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 died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.”

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda condoled with the family of the late general and described the incident as a dark moment for the state and the country.

The statement added, “His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.

“The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, 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 state government said it would continue to work with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that those behind the abduction are brought to justice.

The statement read, “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.”

Rabe and his wife were abducted on May 30, 2026, while travelling along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Their vehicle was reportedly ambushed by armed bandits near Zakin Baure village. Their driver was said to have sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.