Former defence spokesperson, Major General Abubakar, passes away while being held captive after kidnapping.

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, has succumbed to his illnesses while being held captive, just two weeks after he and his wife were abducted in Katsina State. His death was confirmed by the Katsina State Government, which attributed it to complications from diabetes and hypertension.

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The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragic loss despite the state government's and security agencies' efforts to secure the general's release.

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The statement from the Commissioner's office revealed that the general's death was a result of natural causes, with diabetes and hypertension being the underlying factors.

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The abduction and subsequent death of the retired general have been deemed a significant loss, not only to his family and Katsina State, but to the entire country, according to the Commissioner's statement.

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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, has extended his condolences to the family of the late general and the nation, describing the incident as a "dark moment" that highlights the need for collective action against criminal elements.

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The Governor's message also included a expression of sympathy for the bereaved family, with a wish for the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir to rest in eternal peace.

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General Rabe and his wife were kidnapped around the Matazu area of Katsina State while en route to a wedding ceremony, as previously reported.

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Following their abduction, the couple appeared in a video released by their captors, who demanded the release of three detained associates - Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru - as well as the return of allegedly seized livestock.

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In the video, Rabe's wife appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of five local government areas to facilitate compliance with the demands to secure their release.

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The retired general also spoke briefly in the footage, calling for peace and dialogue, and noting that the abductors had expressed interest in peaceful coexistence.