The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife by suspected bandits in the state.
The government disclosed that the retired senior military officer died while in captivity after reportedly developing complications linked to hypertension.
Major General Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped by armed bandits in an incident that further highlights the persistent insecurity confronting several communities across Katsina State and the wider North-West region.
Although details surrounding the exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, officials said the retired officer succumbed to health complications while being held by his abductors. There was no immediate update on the condition or whereabouts of his wife at the time of filing this report.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over the safety of citizens, including retired public officials, amid the continued wave of kidnappings and bandit attacks in parts of the country. Security agencies have yet to issue a comprehensive statement on the development or provide details of efforts being made to rescue other victims still in captivity.
Katsina State, like several states in the North-West, has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups involved in kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling and other violent crimes, despite ongoing military and security operations aimed at restoring peace to the affected areas.
