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The Defence Headquarters has revealed that every operational resource was deployed in an effort to secure the safe return of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was kidnapped in May and later died in captivity.
It explained that it had deliberately avoided public comment on the abduction while rescue efforts were ongoing.
Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, made the disclosure in a statement on Saturday as the military broke its public silence on the abduction.
“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies,” Uba said.
“Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return.”
Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was kidnapped alongside his wife in May while travelling through Katsina State.
A video surfaced on June 6 showing the retired general and his wife appealing to the Katsina State Government to release detained bandits and livestock.
Uba described the retired general’s death as a tragic loss.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” he said.
He noted that Abubakar served the nation with distinction in various capacities, including as spokesman for military formations and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Maj Gen Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as Director Defence Information,” he added.
“He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN.”
Uba added that the incident had further strengthened its resolve to intensify operations against insecurity nationwide and assured Nigerians that it would not relent until peace and security are restored nationwide.
“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens.
“In response to series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria, including that of Maj Gen Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation.
“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account.”
