President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Army spokesman who died while in the custody of bandits after being abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State.
The Katsina State Government confirmed the tragic development on Saturday, stating that the retired officer died from complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.
Abubakar’s kidnapping was announced on May 30, and his captors later demanded the release of detained fighters and the return of seized livestock in exchange for the couple’s freedom.
Reacting to the incident, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve against terrorism and kidnapping, warning that criminals would face the full force of the law.
Meanwhile, several retired military officers condemned the development, describing it as a reflection of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
The Defence Headquarters also pledged to intensify operations against criminal networks, while former Senate President David Mark described Abubakar’s death as a national tragedy that raises concerns about citizens’ safety.