Former Military Spokesman Rabe Abubakar Dies in Captivity

Former Military Spokesman Rabe Abubakar Dies in Captivity

By Jamila Muhammad

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former military spokesman, who died while in captivity after being abducted by his captors.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, described the late officer as a dedicated patriot whose contributions to Nigeria’s security and military development would be remembered for generations.

The military expressed profound sympathy to the family of the deceased, his former colleagues, and Nigerians at large, noting that Major General Abubakar served the nation with distinction in several strategic positions, including as Director of Defence Information and spokesperson for various military formations.

According to the statement, the retired general played a significant role in advancing Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations and strengthening the professionalism of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the Defence Headquarters stated.

The military revealed that it deliberately refrained from public commentary following his abduction in order not to jeopardize ongoing rescue efforts.

“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the Armed Forces and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” the statement said.

Reacting to the tragic development, the military high command said the death of the retired officer has further strengthened its determination to intensify the fight against terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening national security.

The DHQ disclosed that military operations across the country have been reinforced in response to rising incidents of abduction, with renewed efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.

“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the Armed Forces. 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 added.

The military assured Nigerians that it would sustain ongoing operations until peace and security are restored nationwide.

“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 statement concluded.

The passing of Major General Abubakar marks the loss of one of the Armed Forces’ most respected public affairs officers, whose career spanned several critical assignments within Nigeria’s security architecture and whose legacy of service remains deeply etched in the nation’s military history.