Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has faulted the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits in Katsina State.
Reacting to the former military officer’s death, Atiku described the incident as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, arguing that the government must take responsibility for its inability to protect citizens from kidnappers and armed criminal groups.
The former Vice President said the death of a retired senior military officer in captivity raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the country’s security architecture and the safety of ordinary Nigerians. He stressed that if a respected former general could be abducted and die in captivity, the situation facing millions of vulnerable citizens across the country was even more alarming.
A Tragic End to a Kidnap Ordeal
Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was abducted alongside his wife while travelling through Katsina State in late May. The Katsina State Government later confirmed that he died in captivity due to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension despite efforts by security agencies to secure his release. His wife is reportedly still being held by the abductors.
The incident sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over the growing menace of banditry and kidnapping across parts of northern Nigeria.
Tinubu Mourns, Vows No Negotiation With Terrorists
President Tinubu, while expressing sadness over the retired general’s death, maintained that the Federal Government would not bow to demands from terrorists or negotiate the release of detained criminal elements in exchange for hostages. The President described the late officer as a patriotic Nigerian who served the country with distinction and pledged continued efforts to defeat terrorism and banditry.
Fresh Spotlight on Insecurity
The death of the retired general has reignited debate over Nigeria’s security challenges, with opposition figures and security experts calling for stronger action against bandits and kidnappers.
Many Nigerians have also expressed concern over the increasing number of high-profile abductions, urging authorities to intensify rescue operations and strengthen security measures across vulnerable communities.
As tributes continue to pour in for the late military officer, his death has become yet another stark reminder of the security challenges confronting Africa’s most populous nation.
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