The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by his abductors, describing the development as a tragic loss to the nation and the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
In a statement issued on Friday, the military expressed profound sorrow over the death of the retired senior officer, who served in several strategic positions during his distinguished career, including as Director of Defence Information and spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Announcing the development, the Defence Headquarters said it had deliberately refrained from making public comments on the retired general’s abduction while efforts were ongoing to secure his freedom.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” the statement said.
The military noted that extensive efforts had been made to rescue the retired officer, revealing that security agencies deployed significant operational resources in an attempt to ensure his safe return.
“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” it stated.
Paying tribute to the late general, the Armed Forces described him as a dedicated officer whose contributions to national security, military professionalism and counter-insurgency operations left a lasting impact on the country.
“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 made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts,” the statement added.
According to the military, the late officer’s commitment to national unity and service remained a model for serving personnel.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN,” the Defence Headquarters said.
The military extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues and Nigerians mourning the loss, while assuring citizens that his death would further strengthen ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist and criminal networks across the country.
“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,” the statement read.
The Defence Headquarters disclosed that military operations across various theatres have already been intensified in response to a growing wave of abductions and terrorist activities, including the kidnapping of the retired general.
“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,” it said.
Reaffirming its commitment to restoring security nationwide, the military pledged not to relent until those responsible for terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes are brought to justice.
“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,” the Defence Headquarters stated.
