A retired Major General, Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State two weeks ago, has died while in the custody of his captors.
Rabe and his wife were kidnapped around the Matazu area of the state while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.
The retired military officer was last seen in a video circulated on social media in which he and his wife relayed demands made by the kidnappers for their release.
In the footage, the abductors reportedly demanded the release of three individuals identified as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru. The general’s wife stated that two of the men were arrested in Jikamshi, while the third was apprehended in Kano State.
She appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of affected local government areas to intervene and facilitate the couple’s freedom.
Rabe, who spoke briefly in the video, called for peace and dialogue, noting that the kidnappers had expressed willingness to embrace peaceful coexistence.
Confirming his death on Saturday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, said the retired general died in captivity following health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.
Mu’azu described the incident as a tragic loss despite efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure the victim’s release.
According to him, the late general’s death represents a significant loss not only to his family and Katsina State but also to the nation.
The commissioner added that Governor Dikko Radda extended condolences to the deceased’s family and described the development as a painful reminder of the need to intensify the fight against criminal elements threatening public safety.
He said the government remained committed to tackling insecurity and preventing similar incidents.
As of the time of filing this report, it was unclear whether Rabe’s wife had regained her freedom or remained in captivity.