The remains of Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who died while in the custody of bandits, have been buried in Katsina State following the release of his body by his captors.
The late military officer was laid to rest at Gidan Dawa Cemetery on Saturday evening in accordance with Islamic rites.
The funeral attracted a large number of mourners, including Katsina State Deputy Governor, Faruq Lawal-Jobe, senior government officials, military officers, traditional rulers, family members, and sympathisers who gathered to pay their final respects.
Also present were officers of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and other security personnel who honoured the former Director of Defence Information for his years of service to the nation.
Abubakar and his wife were abducted while travelling through Katsina State. Days after the kidnapping, a video emerged showing the couple appealing for help and calling on authorities to negotiate for their release.
On Saturday, the Katsina State Government confirmed that the retired general had died while in captivity.
According to the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, the retired officer died from health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) also confirmed the death, describing it as a tragic loss and noting that security agencies had avoided making public statements during the abduction to prevent jeopardising rescue efforts.
The death of the respected military officer has continued to spark grief and renewed concerns over insecurity and kidnapping across the country.
Source: Adapted from reports by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and statements from the Katsina State Government and Defence Headquarters.
