Kidnapped Nigerian retired general dies in captivity

Sat Jun 13 2026 18:59:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Retired army major general Rabe Abubakar, kidnapped in Katsina last month, reportedly died while held by gunmen. The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in north‑west Nigeria.

Retired Nigerian army chief Rabe Abubakar was abducted in Katsina state a month earlier while travelling with his wife and a driver. Officials confirm he has died while in captivity. His death highlights the continued threat of banditry and the presence of militant groups in the region. Security forces have intensified operations, but the whereabouts of his wife remain unknown.

Kidnapped Nigerian retired general dies in captivity

Retired Maj‑Gen Rabe Abubakar, who had served as army spokesman in the mid‑2010s, was abducted along with his wife and a driver in Katsina state on 30 May. Gunmen seized the vehicle while the couple were en route to a wedding.

A video posted on social media a few days before his death showed Abubakar with a leg injury, surrounded by other hostages. The military later confirmed that he had died in captivity, though the circumstances remain unclear.

No group claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. The area has been plagued by banditry, cattle rustling and sporadic attacks by militant jihadists. This incident emphasizes the persistent insecurity that grips north‑west Nigeria.

The military apologised for not commenting publicly, stating that all resources would be directed toward rescue efforts. They emphasised that operations had been intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and dismantle terrorist networks.

Abubakar was described as a 61‑year‑old former general whose death was mourned as a tragic loss. A tribute noted his “immense contributions to counter‑insurgency operations” and praised his dedication to national unity.

The whereabouts of his wife are still unknown. Local media noted that she was still unaccounted for. For more news from the African continent, visit BBCAfrica.com or follow the organisation on social media @BBCAfrica, BBC Africa or bbcafrica.