Sh*ckwaves As DHQ Reacts To Death Of Former Military Chief Gen. Radabe

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits who abducted him in Katsina State.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that extensive efforts were made by the Armed Forces and other security agencies to secure the retired officer’s release, but the rescue mission was ultimately unsuccessful.

Uba conveyed the condolences of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the nation, describing Major General Abubakar as a distinguished officer who served Nigeria with dedication and professionalism.

According to the statement, the late military officer held several key appointments during his career, including serving as spokesperson for various military formations and as Director of Defence Information, where he acted as the official spokesman of the Armed Forces.

The DHQ noted that Abubakar made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations, military professionalism, and national security throughout his years of service.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria extend their deepest sympathies to the Abubakar family, his colleagues, and all Nigerians. His commitment to duty, national unity, and service to the country remains an inspiration to all personnel,” the statement said.

The military explained that it deliberately refrained from making public comments about his abduction while rescue operations were ongoing, stressing that all available resources were deployed in an effort to secure his safe return.

The DHQ further stated that the tragic development has strengthened the military’s determination to intensify operations against bandits, terrorists, and other criminal groups across the country.

According to the statement, security operations have already been stepped up to track down those responsible for the abduction and dismantle criminal networks threatening national security.

“We remain committed to our constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting citizens, and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terrorism and criminality are brought to justice,” the military added.

Major General Abubakar was abducted on May 30, 2026, alongside his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, after suspected armed bandits attacked their vehicle near Zakin Baure village in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The couple was travelling in a Peugeot 406 when the attack occurred. Their driver survived the incident despite sustaining gunshot injuries during the ambush.