The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), has described the death of former Nigerian Army spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Abubakar Rabe, in bandits’ captivity as a national tragedy, urging renewed commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.
Usman made this known in a statement he made available to our correspondent on Sunday.
Rabe reportedly died on Saturday after spending nearly two weeks in the custody of his abductors.
The retired senior military officer was kidnapped alongside his wife while travelling to Katsina State.
Reacting to the incident, Usman expressed profound grief over the loss, describing the late general as a distinguished officer who devoted his life to the service of Nigeria.
“The death of Maj. Gen. Abubakar Rabe is a painful loss to his family, the Nigerian Army and the nation as a whole. He served this country with dedication and honour, and it is heartbreaking that his life ended under such tragic circumstances,” he said.
The security adviser noted that the incident highlights the persistent threat posed by banditry and kidnapping, stressing the need for stronger collaboration among government institutions, security agencies and local communities.
“His death is a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting our nation. It should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to intensify efforts towards ending banditry and other violent crimes,” Usman stated.
He also expressed concern over the continued captivity of the late general’s wife, who remains in the hands of the kidnappers.
“We are deeply worried about the fate of his wife and call on security agencies to deploy every available resource to secure her safe and immediate release,” he said.
Usman urged authorities at all levels to strengthen ongoing efforts to secure the freedom of Nigerians currently being held captive by criminal groups across the country.
“The tragic death of Maj. Gen. Rabe should strengthen our collective resolve to rescue those still in captivity and bring an end to the activities of these criminal elements. No family should be made to endure such pain and uncertainty,” he added.
The retired colonel further called on security operatives to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure they face justice, while encouraging citizens to support security operations through vigilance and credible intelligence sharing.
He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the Nigerian Army, friends and associates of the late officer, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and give his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss. We also pray for the safe return of his wife and all other victims currently in captivity,” he said.
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