A retired Nigerian Army officer, Major General Rabe Abubakar, has reportedly been killed while in the custody of bandits after being abducted in Katsina State.
Security sources and reports from Katsina State authorities say the former senior military officer died while still held by his captors. Officials say efforts were ongoing to secure his release before news of his death emerged.
Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was said to have been kidnapped along with his wife in late May 2026 while travelling through the Matazu axis of Katsina State. The incident caused concern across security circles and among members of the public.
Authorities in Katsina State have confirmed that intelligence reports indicate he was killed in captivity. However, they also noted that his body has not yet been recovered, as security operations continue in affected areas.
Officials said the retired general was held by armed groups operating in parts of north-west Nigeria, a region that has seen repeated cases of kidnapping, armed attacks, and ransom demands in recent years.
According to reports, security agencies and local authorities had been working on possible rescue efforts since his abduction. Despite these efforts, the situation ended in tragedy, with confirmation that he did not survive while in captivity.
The Katsina State Government has described the development as a painful loss. It said the death of a senior military figure in such circumstances highlights the continuing security challenges facing parts of the country.
The government also said operations are ongoing to track down those responsible for the abduction and killing. Security agencies have been directed to intensify efforts to dismantle armed groups behind such attacks.
Major General Abubakar served in the Nigerian Army for many years and later became known for his role in defence communications. His death has added to growing concerns over the safety of travellers and residents in parts of northern Nigeria.
The north-west region has remained a hotspot for bandit attacks, with armed groups carrying out kidnappings for ransom, raids on rural communities, and attacks on highways.
Authorities say they are continuing investigations and search operations, while calling for public support in providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of those involved.
The incident marks another high-profile case in the ongoing insecurity crisis affecting several states in northern Nigeria.
