Abducted Retired General’s Wife Regains Freedom

The wife of retired Nigerian Army officer, Major General Abubakar Rabe, has reportedly regained her freedom after being held captive by bandits, following the tragic death of her husband in captivity.

According to reports, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, who was abducted alongside the retired military officer, was released alive and handed over to the Katsina State Government. The remains of the late general were also reportedly released and transported to Kaduna State for burial.

A source familiar with the development disclosed that the bandits released both the deceased general’s body and his wife to state authorities.

“Information reaching us indicates that the bandits have handed over the body of Major General Rabe Abubakar to the Katsina State Government alongside his wife, who is alive. The remains are being moved to Kaduna for burial,” the source stated.

Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government has officially confirmed the death of the retired senior military officer.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, the government said Rabe died while in captivity due to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits,” the statement read. “Despite sustained efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure his freedom, the situation ended tragically. He died from complications arising from diabetes and high blood pressure.”

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and described the incident as a painful loss to Katsina State and Nigeria as a whole.

According to the governor, the retired general’s death underscores the need for stronger and more coordinated action against criminal groups threatening communities across the country.

The state government reiterated its commitment to working with the Federal Government and security agencies to track down those responsible for the abduction and bring them to justice, while assuring residents that efforts to combat banditry remain ongoing.

Major General Rabe and his wife were kidnapped on May 30, 2026, while travelling along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Their vehicle was reportedly attacked by armed bandits near Zakin Baure village, with their driver sustaining gunshot injuries during the incident.