DHQ Confirms Death Of Former Military Spokesman, Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, In Kidnappers’ Captivity

Abuja, Nigeria– The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the death of former Director of Defence Information and retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by his abductors.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the development as a tragic loss and extended condolences to the family of the deceased senior military officer, his colleagues and Nigerians at large.

According to the statement, Major General Abubakar, who served in several strategic military appointments during his distinguished career, was abducted by gunmen and subsequently lost his life in captivity despite efforts by security agencies to secure his release.

“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 military noted that the late general dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria and played significant roles in strengthening the Armed Forces and the country’s counter-insurgency operations.

The Defence Headquarters recalled that Abubakar held numerous appointments throughout his military career, including serving as spokesperson for various military formations and later as spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria in his capacity as Director of Defence Information.

The statement said: “The Armed Forces of Nigeria convey its deepest sympathies to the Abubakar family, his colleagues and all Nigerians. 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. His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN.”

The military authorities disclosed that they deliberately refrained from making public comments about the retired general’s abduction while efforts were ongoing to rescue him.

According to the Defence Headquarters, silence was maintained in order not to jeopardise operational activities aimed at securing his freedom.

“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,” the statement added.

Reacting to the former military spokesman’s death, the Armed Forces said the incident would further strengthen its determination to confront insecurity and eliminate terrorist groups and criminal networks operating across the country.

The military stressed that it remained committed to its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens from security threats.

“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 noted.

The Defence Headquarters also linked the incident to a broader pattern of kidnappings and terrorist activities occurring in different parts of the country, stating that military operations had already been intensified to track down those responsible.

“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,” the military said.

Reassuring Nigerians of its commitment to restoring peace and security nationwide, the Defence Headquarters vowed that the Armed Forces would continue pursuing terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements until they 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,” Uba added.