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JUST IN: Ex-Defence Spokesman, Gen. Rabe, Dies in Bandits' Captivity National Security Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) and his Abandoned Vehicle Peugeot 406 JUST IN: Ex-Defence Spokesman, Gen. Rabe, Dies in Bandits’ Captivity – Katsina Govt Confirms The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits, bringing a tragic end to months of efforts aimed at securing his release. The development was announced on Saturday in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu. According to the statement, the retired senior military officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity. “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,” the statement said. The government described the abduction and subsequent death of the retired General as a significant loss to his family, Katsina State, and the nation at large. Read Also: Military R…

Army General's death: Military launches operation in Katsina The Defence Headquarters Joint Task Force North West has launched a fresh major offensive named ‘Operation Clean Sweep III’ across Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities in Katsina State. In a statement by Lt-Col. Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of the JTF North West under Operation Fansan Yamma, the operation is in direct response to the abduction and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar. According to the statement, the operation, which kicked off on Saturday, June 14, 2026, aims to hunt down and eliminate the bandits responsible for the retired general’s kidnap and subsequent death in captivity, while dismantling their operational networks in the region. The statement further stated that troops have already carried out intensive fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search operations, and clearance exercises in identified criminal hideouts. “We have launched ‘Operation Clean Sweep III’ across Katsina state. “Significant gains have been recorded around Dikkawa Hills, Adua, Nasarawa, and Karaduwa areas, where several terrorist camps, logistics hubs, and support faciliti…

BREAKING: Troops rescue wife of late General Rabe Abubakar in Katsina - Daily Post Nigeria Nigerian Army troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Mrs Abubakar, wife of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, following a deadly encounter with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Popular security expert Zagazola Makama disclosed this in an exclusive report posted on his official X handle on Monday night. He said the operation, conducted under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, followed intelligence-led offensives launched in Matazu and adjoining communities after the abduction of the retired senior officer’s wife. Quoting security sources, Makama said troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga village during a search-and-rescue operation, forcing the armed group to flee under heavy military pressure. “The bandits shot her and fled when we made contact at Tunga village. We have rescued Mrs. Abubakar. She is bleeding. We have given her first aid and are moving her for urgent medical attention,” a military source said. Don't Miss Imo: Police begin statewide enforcement against vehicles with unregistered, concealed plate numbers You may like 16-year-old Boko Haram re…

BREAKING: Abducted Retired Army General Dies in Bandits' Captivity Share for social good CLICK THE IMAGE👇TO FLY TO UK ┈➤JOKES APART Abuja, Nigeria – Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, has died while in the custody of bandits who abducted him in Katsina State. The tragic development was confirmed by the Katsina State Government on Saturday, weeks after the retired military officer and his wife were kidnapped while travelling through the state in May 2026. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the government disclosed that Major General Abubakar died in captivity due to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement read. According to the state government, despite sustained efforts by security agencies and authorities to secure his release, the former military spokesman could not be rescued before his death. “The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension. His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his …

Nigerian army frees widow of ex-general who died in captivity Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar and his wife Amina were abducted in north-west Nigeria at the end of last month.

Gen. Rabe Abubakar Buried in Katsina, Bandits Free Wife The remains of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, have been released by his abductors and buried in Katsina, days after the state government confirmed his death while in bandits’ captivity. The late general’s wife, who was kidnapped alongside him, was also released by the terrorists and reunited with her family after spending weeks in captivity. The development was disclosed by crisis reporter Bakatsine in a post on his X handle, stating that the abductors handed over the retired military officer’s body and freed his wife. Abubakar and his wife were abducted along the Matazu axis of Katsina State on May 30, triggering concern among security agencies and residents. The Katsina State Government had earlier confirmed that the retired general died in captivity, with the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu Danmusa, revealing that available information indicated he succumbed to health complications while in the custody of his abductors. According to the government, the former defence spokesman reportedly died from complications linked to diabetes and hyperte…

Makinde announces new death amid Oyo schoolchildren abduction Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed the death of an unnamned Nigerian army lieutenant in the Oriire rescue efforts Protests erupted in Ibadan, Oyo state, demanding the release of kidnapped schoolchildren and teachers Governor Makinde vowed that the infamous Oyo school kidnappings will not become another Chibok abduction scenario Find it fast with our new search feature at Legit.ng! Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering security matters and counter-insurgency in Nigeria and Africa. Ibadan, Oyo state - Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, on Tuesday, June 16, announced that a lieutenant in the Nigerian army was recently killed amid ongoing efforts to rescue the kidnapped Oriire schoolchildren and teachers. He made the disclosure while addressing protesters led by activist and social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in Ibadan . Makinde confirms a Nigerian army lieutenant was killed during efforts to rescue the abducted Oriire schoolchildren and teachers. Photo credit: Seyi Makinde Source: Facebook It would be recalled that on Friday, May 15, gunmen sus…

BREAKING: Retired General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits' Captivity Breaking News News Today Ex-Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Rabe Abubakar The Katsina State Government has officially confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while being held captive by bandits, describing the incident as a painful loss not only to his family but also to the state and the nation at large. The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, and made available to journalists. According to the state government, the retired senior military officer passed away due to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity. The government disclosed that several coordinated efforts were undertaken by both state authorities and security agencies to secure his freedom. However, despite sustained attempts and interventions, those efforts did not yield the desired result before his death. The statement read: “The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe …

Bandits' Camps Destroyed As Troops Intensify Katsina Offensive After ... Troops have intensified offensive operations against terrorists and bandits across parts of Katsina State following the death of a former Director of Defence Information, who reportedly died while in captivity after being abducted alongside his wife by armed criminals. The Katsina State Government on Saturday confirmed that the retired senior military officer died in captivity due to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held by bandits. The deceased officer was buried on Sunday at about 6:00 p.m. at the Gidan Dawa Cemetery opposite his residence in Katsina metropolis, following funeral prayers attended by family members, military personnel, government officials and a large crowd of mourners. In response to growing security concerns, military authorities said troops have sustained aggressive operations targeting terrorist and bandit enclaves across the state. According to the military, troops involved in the ongoing operation have continued to conduct fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search missions and clearance operations in several identified criminal h…

Nigeria: DHQ Vows to End Terrorism, Mourns As Abducted Retired Maj Gen Abubakar Dies in Captivity [This Day] Following the death of the former Director of Defence Information, Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd.), in the den of bandits, the DHQ has reaffirmed its resolve to eradicate terrorism.

Breaking: Retired Nigerian Major General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits ... Date: June 13, 2026 Author: A2Z News Nigeria 0 Comments The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Nigerian Army spokesman and former Major General, Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in captivity after being abducted by armed bandits. In an official statement issued by the Commissioner for Security and Internal Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the state government said intensive efforts were made in collaboration with security agencies to secure the safe release of the retired senior officer, but the efforts unfortunately ended in tragedy. According to the statement, the former military spokesperson died as a result of health complications, including diabetes and high blood pressure, while being held by his abductors. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a painful and monumental loss not only to the immediate family of the deceased but also to Katsina State and Nigeria as a whole. He said the development underscores the urgent need for stronger collective action against banditry and other forms of violent crime across the country. The state government further assured that …

Lt Major General Rabe Abubakar's widow rescued Lt Major General Rabe Abubakar’s widow rescued By : Priscilla Iwedike Date: 15 June 2026 7:00pm WAT Share : Follow Us on Google Discover Wife of Lt General Rabe Wife of Lt General Rabe The widow of Major General Rabe Abubakar has been successfully rescued following a recent incident in which she sustained injuries. Authorities confirmed that she was found and brought to safety after swift intervention. She is currently receiving medical attention, with healthcare personnel working to stabilize her condition. Details surrounding the circumstances of the incident have not yet been fully disclosed. Related News Military intensifies offensive against bandits after Ex-General dies DHQ launches ‘Operation Clean Sweep III’ in fresh bandit crackdown My dad wasn’t diabetic, Abubakar’s son disputes govt’s claim Security and relevant agencies are reportedly continuing investigations to determine what led to the situation, while ensuring adequate protection and care for the victim. Details later.. Tags: Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd.)

A General's last battle: The life and tragic passing of Rabe Abubakar Share ​Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari (rtd), one of Nigeria’s most recognisable military communicators whose career spanned nearly three decades, has tragically died in bandit captivity following his abduction in Katsina State. ​Widely known for his tenure as Director of Defence Information (DDI), Abubakar served as the chief spokesperson for the Nigerian Armed Forces during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Between 2015 and 2017, as Nigeria battled severe counterinsurgency challenges in the North-East, Abubakar became the public face of the military—regularly briefing the nation and shaping defence policy narratives. ​Born on April 7, 1965, in the Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State, Abubakar’s northern upbringing laid the foundation for a distinguished trajectory in public service. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in History, he complemented his academic roots with extensive global military training, including the Company Amphibious Course and strategic leadership programmes at the National Defence College of China. ​Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Nigerian A…

BREAKING: General Rabe's Son Speaks on Late Father's Condition ... A son of late Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), Isyaka Rabe, has broken his silence regarding the condition of his late father while in captivity and the mystery surrounding how the family received his remains. He made the clarification while speaking in an exclusive interview with Deutsche Welle (DW). Isyaka debunked the narrative put forward by authorities, stating that his father had no history of diabetes or high blood pressure, contrary to the claims publicly attributed to the Katsina State Government. When questioned about the circumstances under which the family recovered the late general’s body, Isyaka revealed that the family was completely kept in the dark by official channels. “When I announced the time for my father’s funeral prayer, many people began asking how the body was recovered. I told them I did not know and that they should direct such questions to the government,” he stated. He added that while only God knows the actual cause of his father’s death, reports suggesting he died from standard health complications are inaccurate, pointing out that many believe the retired general was killed by a v…

Gen. Rabe Abubakar's Family Questions Recovery of His Body as Wife ... Home Headline Gen. Rabe Abubakar’s Family Questions Recovery of His Body as Wife Remains... Gen. Rabe Abubakar’s Family Questions Recovery of His Body as Wife Remains in Captivity Headline News Published on June 15, 2026 By Yisau Babatunde Facebook X Pinterest WhatsApp The family of late retired Major General has called on the Katsina State Government to explain the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the former military officer’s body from bandits, questioning how his remains were retrieved while his wife remains in captivity. Speaking in an interview with DW Hausa, the deceased’s son, , said the family had no information about how the body was recovered and urged authorities to provide answers. Major General Abubakar and his wife, Amina, were abducted on May 30 along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Katsina State after gunmen attacked their vehicle near Zakin Baure village in Matazu Local Government Area. Their driver was reportedly injured during the attack. The retired military officer later died in captivity, while his wife remains in the custody of the kidnappers. Addressing questions about the …

Tinubu Mourns Slain Retired General, Vows No Mercy for Terrorists Home News Tinubu Mourns Slain Retired General, Vows No Mercy for Terrorists By Tgnews Reporter President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by bandits in Katsina State. In a statement issued by the Presidency, the President described the death of the retired senior military officer as tragic and heartbreaking, extending his condolences to the bereaved family, the Katsina State Government, and the Nigerian Armed Forces. According to the statement, Major-General Abubakar was abducted by terrorists while travelling to his hometown after a distinguished career in service to the nation. His wife, who was kidnapped alongside him, remains in captivity. President Tinubu said he was deeply saddened by the development and sympathized with the family during this difficult period, while expressing hope for the safe rescue of the deceased’s wife and other victims still in the hands of kidnappers. The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to just…

DHQ Launches 'Operation Clean Sweep III' In Katsina After Retired ... Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar The Defense Headquarters’ Joint Task Force North West, under Operation Fansan Yamma, has launched a major offensive operation, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, targeting terrorists and bandits operating in Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities in Katsina State. Advertisement According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of JTF North West Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operation commenced on 14 June 2026 to locate and neutralise those responsible for the attack, dismantling criminal networks, and restoring security across the affected communities. The development followed the incident that led to the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife by suspected terrorists and bandits in the area. The Katsina State Government on Saturay announced that the former Director of Defence Information died while in bandits’ captivity due to complications from diabetes and hypertension. The late senior military officer was laid to rest on Sunday at about 6:00 p.m. at the Gid…

Military rescues wife of late ex-defence spokesman abducted by bandits Military rescues wife of late ex-defence spokesman abducted by bandits June 15, 2026 7:18 pm By Solomon Odeniyi Kindly share this story: Troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, have rescued Mrs Amina Abubakar, the wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted by bandits alongside her husband several weeks ago. The Defence Headquarters announced the rescue on Monday. It said the operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA. A statement signed by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said troops made contact with the kidnappers at Tunga Village during sustained offensive operations against criminal elements in the area. According to the military, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing in the face of advancing troops. “The rescue operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts conducted by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA. During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga Village, leading to…

Ex-Army Spokesperson Rabe Abubakar Dies In Bandits' Captivity Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, has died while in the custody of bandits months after he was abducted alongside his wife. The development was confirmed on Saturday, sparking fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of northern Nigeria wherekidnappingfor ransom remains rampant. Abubakar, who served as Director of Army Public Relations during his military career, was reportedly kidnapped by armed bandits while travelling with his wife. Efforts by security agencies and family members to secure their release had continued before news of his death emerged. The former military officer’s death comes amid a series of security operations across the country. In neighbouring Zamfara State, security operatives recently rescued three hostages from kidnappers, while police in Katsina foiled a kidnap attempt and freed nine victims. READ ALSO:Ex-Defence Information Director Appears In Captivity Footage, Abductors Make Demands The incident has drawn widespread reactions from Nigerians, with many describing the death of the retired general in captivity as a tragic re…

BREAKING: Troops rescue wife of former Defence spokesman who died in terrorists' custody BREAKING: Troops rescue wife of former Defence spokesman who died in terrorists’ custody 15 June 2026 8:19 pm WAT By danivert Follow Us on Google From Molly Kilete, Abuja The Defence Headquarters(DHQ), said Troops of the Nigerian Army with the support of the Nigerian Air Force have successfully rescued Mrs Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar and former Director Defence Information, who was abducted by bandits alongside her husband a few weeks ago. Director Defence Information Major General Samaila Uba, who made this known, said The rescue operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts conducted by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA. Uba, in a statement said During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga Village, leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar. He said, “In the course of the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing due to the overwhelming pressure from advancing troops. “Mrs Abubakar was immediately evacuated and is currently r…

Nigeria: Abducted former general dies in captivity Rabe Abubakar was abducted along with his wife by so-called bandits in the northwest. A government statement said he died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

Family Reveals How General Abubakar Died, Says Wife Still In Bandits ... Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe and his wife The family of the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has disclosed that he died from a snakebite while in the custody of bandits who had abducted him and his wife. According to the family, earlier reports that he died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension were incorrect. Naija News reports that the son of the late General, Isyaka, who spoke to DW gave the fresh update, and clarified that his death was not linked to pre-existing health conditions. He also revealed that General Rabe’s wife, who was abducted alongside him by bandits, remains in captivity, contrary to some reports suggesting she had been released. The family, however, expressed concern over her continued detention and appealed for renewed efforts to secure her freedom. Naija News recalls that the death of General Abubakar in bandit custody had raised fresh national concerns about the challenges of insecurity in Nigeria. In reaction, President Bola Tinubu vowed that the government will not bend to the wishes of the criminals. Reacting in a statement by his Special Adviser on …