Timber wood Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, and his wife Major General Abubakar Rabe (rtd), who was abducted by bandits alongside his wife along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State on May 30, has been laid to rest. He was buried in Katsina two weeks after his kidnapping, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The funeral was attended by family members, senior military officers, government officials, and residents, many of whom described the event as deeply sorrowful. At the burial site, Qur’anic recitations were held as mourners paid their last respects to the late retired General, honouring his years of service to Nigeria. The atmosphere was filled with grief, with many attendees visibly emotional. Residents of Katsina metropolis expressed shock over the incident, lamenting the worsening security situation in the state and the continued loss of lives, including those who once served in the military. A resident, Dr.
Sama’ila Balarabe, described the death as a painful loss to both the family and the state, noting that the late General served the country with dedication. In a statement, the Defence Headquarters described Rabe as a committed officer who made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations and national security. The military added that his service to the nation would remain a lasting example for serving personnel. The Armed Forces of Nigeria also said efforts were ongoing to track down the perpetrators and dismantle terrorist networks operating across the country. Reactions have continued to trail the incident, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the state of security in the country.
On social media, users questioned how a retired general could fall victim to such an attack, urging authorities to intensify efforts against banditry and terrorism.
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