Retired Major General dies in bandits' captivity despite rescue efforts

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of bandits. According to a statement issued on Saturday by Dr. Nasiru Mu'azu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the former military officer succumbed to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension despite sustained efforts to secure his release.

The government statement read in part, "The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar." It added that extensive efforts involving the state administration and security agencies were undertaken to ensure his safe release but unfortunately ended in tragedy. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a dark reminder of the persistent security challenges confronting the country.

This is a retired General who served this nation for decades, yet he could not be saved from criminals. The governor said this underscores the urgent need for intensified collaboration against criminal elements. We are now at a point where even the highest ranking retired military officers are not safe. When will this end?