Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who reportedly died while in the custody of bandits after being abducted in Katsina State, has been laid to rest amid grief and widespread condemnation of the country’s worsening security situation.
The late army officer was buried on Saturday in Katsina State in accordance with Islamic rites, with family members, military personnel, government officials, friends and sympathisers gathering to pay their final respects.
Emotions ran high during the funeral as mourners offered prayers and Qur’anic recitations for the deceased, whose death has sparked renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria.
Rabe was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony.
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Reports indicate that the retired general died approximately two weeks after the abduction while still being held captive by his abductors.
Many mourners described the circumstances surrounding his death as tragic, noting that the former military officer had spent decades serving the nation and contributing to efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
Residents of Katsina metropolis also expressed shock over the incident, lamenting the persistent security challenges facing the state and raising concerns about the safety of citizens, including retired security personnel.
A community leader, Dr. Sama’ila Balarabe, described the late officer’s death as a painful loss, saying Rabe served Nigeria with dedication and patriotism throughout his military career.
“He served this country faithfully and committed his life to protecting others. It is heartbreaking that he met such an unfortunate end,” Balarabe said.
In a statement, the Defence Headquarters paid tribute to the late officer, describing him as a committed soldier who made significant contributions to military operations, particularly in the fight against insurgency.
The military noted that Rabe’s legacy of service, courage and patriotism would continue to inspire serving and future generations of personnel.
It also assured Nigerians that security forces remained committed to tracking down those responsible for the abduction and intensifying operations against criminal and terrorist groups across the country.
The death of the retired general has once again drawn attention to the growing threat posed by armed groups in several parts of the country and renewed calls for stronger measures to address insecurity.
