Bandits Kidnap Ex-Defence Spokesman, Wife in Katsina

KATSINA, Nigeria — Suspected bandits have abducted retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, and his wife in Katsina State, in the latest high-profile kidnapping to hit the North-West state.

According to reports gathered by RMNews360, the couple was travelling through parts of Katsina on Saturday when armed gunmen ambushed their vehicle and whisked them away to an undisclosed location.

Details surrounding the attack remain unclear, while security agencies have yet to provide a full account of how the incident occurred.

The abduction has sparked fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in Katsina, despite ongoing military operations aimed at curbing banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.

Military Launches Rescue Efforts

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the incident and said efforts are underway to secure the release of the retired military officer and his wife.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, told the BBC that security agencies have commenced operations to rescue the victims and track down those responsible for the abduction.

While military authorities have acknowledged the kidnapping, the Katsina State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.

Security analysts have repeatedly identified Katsina as one of the states most affected by bandit attacks in the North-West, with several local government areas experiencing frequent cases of kidnapping, cattle rustling and armed violence.

Residents in affected communities have continued to call for stronger security measures as attacks persist despite intensified military offensives.

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Katsina Grapples With Persistent Insecurity

The latest abduction comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity in Katsina State and neighbouring states across the region.

According to reports gathered by RMNews360, three soldiers were killed in March during a gun battle with suspected bandits in Danmusa Local Government Area of the state.

The incident highlighted the continued threat posed by armed groups operating in remote communities despite sustained counter-banditry operations by security forces.

The kidnapping of Major General Abubakar also follows a similar incident involving another retired senior military officer.

In February 2025, retired Major General Maharazu Tsiga, a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was abducted by gunmen in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Tsiga spent 56 days in captivity before eventually regaining his freedom, drawing national attention to the vulnerability of even high-profile individuals to the activities of criminal gangs.

The repeated targeting of prominent figures has raised concerns about the operational capabilities of bandit groups and their ability to strike across different parts of the state.

Growing Concerns Over Kidnappings

The abduction of the former defence spokesman is expected to intensify calls for stronger security measures across the North-West, where kidnapping for ransom remains a major challenge.

Over the past few years, Katsina has witnessed numerous attacks on communities, travellers, traditional rulers, students and public officials, with many victims held for weeks or months before regaining their freedom.

As rescue efforts continue, family members, colleagues and well-wishers are hoping for the safe return of Major General Abubakar and his wife.

Authorities have not disclosed whether any contact has been established with the kidnappers or if ransom demands have been made.

For now, security agencies say operations are ongoing to locate the victims and ensure their safe rescue while bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.