Ex-Generals Blame Government as Former Army Spokesman Dies in Captivity

President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, who died while in captivity after being abducted by bandits in Katsina State.

 

The late army officer was kidnapped alongside his wife on May 30, with the abductors later demanding the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations as conditions for their freedom.

 

In a video released by the kidnappers on June 6, Abubakar and his wife appealed to the Katsina State Government to meet the demands.

 

However, the Katsina State Government confirmed on Saturday that the retired general had died in captivity.

 

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, the government said Abubakar died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.

 

Reacting to the development, President Tinubu described the incident as a tragic reminder of Nigeria’s security challenges and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating terrorism and kidnapping.

 

“Bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror should now surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. And no mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” the President said in a statement issued by the State House.

 

He also urged Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insecurity.

 

“As Nigerians, we must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he added.

 

The death of the retired general has, however, drawn strong reactions from former military officers who blamed the government for failing to adequately address insecurity.

 

Retired Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi described the incident as a damaging reflection of Nigeria’s security situation.

 

“It is a very bad message to the international community, particularly about the security situation of this country. As it is now, everybody, not only retired generals, but everybody should defend themselves by any means,” he said.

 

Adewinbi described Abubakar’s death as unfortunate and unacceptable, calling for a comprehensive review of the nation’s security architecture, including greater deployment of technology and improved coordination among security agencies.

 

Another retired officer, Brigadier General John Sura, said the incident highlighted the vulnerability of all Nigerians regardless of status.

 

“If this country can abandon somebody to the insurgents or the terrorists, it means even a senator, a governor, or any other person can fall prey,” he said.

 

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has vowed to intensify operations against terrorist and criminal groups across the country.

 

In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military described Abubakar’s death as a tragic loss and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.

 

The Defence Headquarters noted that it had deliberately refrained from making public comments on the abduction while efforts to secure his release were ongoing.

 

Also reacting, former Senate President and National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, described the incident as a national tragedy and a stark reminder of the worsening security crisis facing the country.

 

“The death of Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity is not only a personal loss to his family and the military community but also a national tragedy. It raises serious concerns about the safety and security of every Nigerian citizen,” Mark said.