Nigeria’s military on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by his abductors. The military pledged to intensify operations against terrorist and criminal groups across the country.
In a statement by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information the Defence Headquarters said Abubakar, a former military spokesman, died in captivity following his abduction.
It extended condolences to his family, colleagues and Nigerians, describing him as a distinguished officer who served in several key appointments, including as Director of Defence Information.
The military said Abubakar made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations, the professional development of the armed forces and national security efforts during his career.
The Defence Headquarters said it had refrained from making public comments on his abduction while rescue efforts were underway. It added that military and other security agencies deployed all available resources in an attempt to secure his release.
It said the former general’s death had strengthened the military’s determination to fulfil its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens.
The statement added that security operations had been intensified in response to a series of abductions across the country, including that of Abubakar, with efforts focused on bringing those responsible to justice and dismantling terrorist networks.
“The Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account,” the statement said.
Earlier, the Katsina state government while confirming Abubakar’s death said the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.
The state government statement said “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in the 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.”
Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State, the abductors reportedly demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations as conditions for their release.
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