Tragedy Strikes! Retired General Rabe Abubakar Dies In Captivity As Nation Demands Justice Amidst Wife's Abduction
Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former military spokesperson, died in captivity two weeks after his abduction in Katsina State, sparking national sorrow and debate. While President Tinubu vowed no negotiations with terrorists, the Katsina State Government attributed his death to natural causes, a claim strongly refuted by human rights activists. His wife remains held captive as security concerns escalate nationwide.
Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), a former military spokesperson, was abducted alongside his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, on May 30, 2024, along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Two weeks later, he died in captivity, sparking national outrage and deep concern over Nigeria's escalating security challenges. His death was announced on Saturday, June 13, 2024, leading to widespread reactions from various quarters.
Reports indicate that the terrorists holding General Abubakar and his wife demanded the release of their arrested colleagues as a condition for their freedom. In a video circulated on social media, the couple was seen relaying the abductors’ demands, specifically calling for the release of three individuals identified as Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru, reportedly arrested in Jikamshi and Kano. Hajiya Amina Abubakar, the General's widow, remains in captivity, with bandit kingpin Kachalla Muhammad claiming he withheld her release due to the heavy presence of security personnel and anger over arrests linked to his group.
President Bola Tinubu expressed shock and sadness over General Abubakar's death, describing it as a tragic reminder of the security challenges facing the country. In a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu vowed that the government would "never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies." He reiterated his stance against negotiating with terrorists, emphasizing that they are "the greatest enemies of our dear nation, who should never be spared." The President extended his condolences to the bereaved family, Katsina State government, and the armed forces.
The Katsina State Government, through its Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, confirmed General Abubakar's death, stating he died a "natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension" while in captivity. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow, calling it a "dark moment" for the state and a stark reminder of the security challenges. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government and security agencies to combat banditry and bring perpetrators to justice. However, Governor Radda's reported appeals to terrorists and bandits to embrace peace and return to their communities, describing them as "our brothers and sisters," drew significant criticism.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) also confirmed General Abubakar's death, expressing deep sorrow and describing it as a significant loss. The military noted it had deliberately withheld public comment during active rescue operations, mobilizing all available operational resources. The DHQ vowed that the loss would strengthen the Armed Forces' resolve to confront terrorism and banditry, promising to intensify operations and bring those responsible to justice.
Human rights activist Francis Nwapa strongly criticized the Katsina State government's explanation of General Abubakar's death as "natural." Nwapa argued that the central issue was his abduction and death in captivity due to the state's failure to rescue him, calling it a "tragic consequence of the collapse of security and the failure of government." He also berated Governor Radda's appeals for dialogue with terrorists, contrasting it with the treatment of peaceful #EndBadGovernance protesters. Nwapa questioned how terrorists acquire sophisticated weapons despite the Minister of Defence's claims of procurement difficulties, urging for the rescue of the general's wife, prosecution of abductors, and investigation into alleged collaborations between political institutions and criminal networks.
The death of Major General Abubakar Rabe prompted widespread reactions across Nigeria, with many Nigerians on social media platforms like Facebook and X expressing grief and concern over the deteriorating security situation. Users questioned the safety of ordinary citizens if a retired general could die in such circumstances, calling for greater accountability from leadership. The incident was widely viewed as a painful reminder of the urgent need for sustained efforts to improve security and protect lives. National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, a retired Brigadier General himself, described the death as a national tragedy, highlighting the escalating insecurity and calling for a comprehensive review of Nigeria's security architecture.
General Abubakar was laid to rest in Katsina in accordance with Islamic rites, in a solemn ceremony attended by family members, senior military officers, government officials, and residents. Mourners openly wept, lamenting the tragic irony of a life dedicated to national defense ending in such a manner. The collective sentiment underscored the demand for decisive action against insecurity to restore peace and stability across the nation.