Former Defence spokesman dies in bandits’ den

  

Former Defence Spokesman, Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) has died in the custody of bandits who kidnapped him and his wife.

Katsina state government confirmed his death on Saturday.

The former Army Chief has spent months in the den of bandits at yet to be identified location in the Katsina forest.

Katsina state  Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, announced his death in a Statement on Saturday.

According to the statement, the retired Army General gave up the ghost from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

The Statement reads:  “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in 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.”

Katsina state government regretted the tragic incident and sad news,  describing the abduction and death of the retired Army General as, “a significant loss to his family, Katsina State, and the nation at large.

Katsina state Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and Nigerians, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the persistent security challenges confronting communities across the country.

“The Governor has described this incident as a dark moment and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified response against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of our communities,” the statement added.

The state government further reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the crime are apprehended and brought to justice.

Katsina state government also assured residents that its resolve to combat banditry and protect lives and property across the state remains unwavering.