Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar laid to rest amid grief over death in bandits’ captivity

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while in bandits’ captivity two weeks after his abduction, has been laid to rest in Katsina State.

The burial, conducted in accordance with Islamic rites, attracted family members, senior military officers, government officials, friends and residents who gathered to pay their final respects to the late military officer.

Major General Rabe was abducted alongside his wife on May 30, 2026, when bandits ambushed their vehicle along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The retired General was later confirmed dead in captivity, with the Katsina State Government stating that he died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.

At the burial ceremony, Qur’anic recitations echoed through the venue as mourners reflected on his years of service to Nigeria and his contributions to national security.

Many attendees described the occasion as heartbreaking, noting the painful circumstances surrounding the death of a man who dedicated much of his life to defending the country.

“This is a painful loss, not just to the family but to the entire state,” a mourner, Dr. Sama’ila Balarabe, said.

“He served this country faithfully, yet he died in such circumstances.”

Residents across Katsina State also expressed concern over the worsening security situation, lamenting that insecurity continues to affect both civilians and former security personnel.

In a statement, the Defence Headquarters paid tribute to the late General, describing him as a committed officer who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.

The military said his dedication to duty, patriotism and commitment to the unity of Nigeria would remain a shining example for serving personnel of the Armed Forces.

It also assured Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the abduction and death of the retired General, as well as dismantle criminal and terrorist networks operating across the country.

Meanwhile, the late General’s wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, who was abducted alongside him, remains in captivity, with security agencies reportedly continuing efforts to secure her release.

The incident has continued to generate reactions nationwide, with many Nigerians questioning the state of security in the country and calling for intensified action against banditry and terrorism.

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