Kidnapped Retired General Dies in Bandits’ Custody

ByNewsmakers

Jun 13, 2026 #Abubakar Rabe, #Bandit attack in Katsina, #General dies in captivity, #Katsina bandits, #Katsina Insecurity, #Nigeria kidnapping news, #Retired Major General kidnapped

Retired Major General Rabe in captivity.

Malik Yahya/

Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in the custody of bandits.

The late senior military officer was kidnapped near the Matazu area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.

Before news of his death emerged, a video circulated on social media showing the retired general and his wife in captivity, relaying the demands of their abductors.

In the four-minute video, Mrs. Rabe disclosed that the kidnappers were demanding the release of three suspected bandits identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru, allegedly arrested in Jikamshi and Kano.

She appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders across five local government areas to intervene and facilitate compliance with the demands to secure their freedom.

Speaking briefly in the video, the retired general urged efforts toward peace, noting that the abductors had indicated interest in dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Confirming his death on Saturday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, said the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

“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,” the statement read.

“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.”

Mu’azu described the deceased as a national asset whose death represents a significant loss to his family, Katsina State and the country at large.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, according to the statement, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and described the incident as “a dark moment” that underscores the urgent need for intensified action against criminal groups terrorising communities.

“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,” the statement added.

As of the time of filing this report, it remained unclear whether the late general’s wife had regained freedom or was still being held by the abductors.