The body of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his widow have been released by bandits after weeks in captivity, with the former Director of Defence Information laid to rest in Katsina on Saturday.
Abubakar was buried following funeral prayers attended by family members, military officers, government officials and residents.
The development was disclosed in a post by crisis reporter Bakatsine on X, which stated that the late general’s wife, who had been held alongside him, was released by the abductors together with his body.
The Katsina State Government had earlier confirmed that the retired military officer died while in captivity after he and his wife were abducted along the Matazu axis of the state on May 30.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu Danmusa, said security authorities received information indicating that Abubakar died while in the custody of his abductors.
According to the state government, the retired general reportedly died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension despite efforts by security agencies to secure his release.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a tragic loss to Katsina State and Nigeria, noting that the late general’s death was a significant blow given his years of dedicated service to the country.
Mourners gathered on Saturday to pay their final respects as Abubakar was buried in accordance with Islamic rites, while his wife reunited with family members after regaining her freedom.
