Former General Abubakar Dies in Bandits' Captivity After Two Weeks

Former military general and defense spokesman Abubakar has died while being held captive by bandits in Katsina state, according to a government statement from the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs. He was kidnapped along with his wife about two weeks ago while traveling to a wedding and was ambushed en route, as reported by AFP citing a security source.

The government statement confirmed that his death resulted from complications related to diabetes and hypertension, adding that "despite the relentless and concerted efforts to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy." Punch newspaper reported last week that the abductors were demanding the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations in exchange for the couple.

This is a stark reminder that these criminal gangs in northwestern Nigeria are not just after money — they make political demands and hold victims for weeks. The security situation in Katsina and neighboring states remains dire. How many more families will endure this before we see real change?