Former defence spokesman Rabe Abubakar laid to rest as wife regains freedom

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, has been buried in Katsina State on Saturday following funeral prayers attended by relatives, military personnel, government officials and members of the public.

News of the burial was shared by conflict reporter Bakatsine in a post on X, where he revealed that the late officer’s wife, who was abducted alongside him, was eventually released by the kidnappers together with his remains.

The burial followed confirmation by the Katsina State Government that the retired army general died while being held by bandits.

Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped on May 30 along the Matazu area of Katsina State.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu Danmusa, had said security authorities received information indicating that the retired general died while in the custody of his abductors.

According to the state government, Abubakar reportedly died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension despite sustained efforts by security agencies to secure his freedom.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a tragic loss to Katsina State and Nigeria, noting that the late general’s death was a significant blow given his years of dedicated service to the country.

During the funeral on Saturday, mourners gathered to pay their final respects as the retired military officer was buried in accordance with Islamic rites, while his wife, who regained her freedom after weeks in captivity, reunited with family members.

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