Family Rejects Katsina Government’s Account of Late General Rabe Abubakar’s Death

KATSINA, Nigeria, June 15 — The family of late Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.) has disputed claims by the Katsina State Government that the retired military officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

Speaking in an interview with Deutsche Welle on Sunday, the deceased’s son, Isyaka Rabe, said the family does not believe the former general suffered from either condition and questioned the official explanation surrounding his death.

The Katsina State Government had announced on Saturday that the retired army officer died after developing complications from diabetes and hypertension following his abduction by bandits.

However, Isyaka described reports linking his father’s death to diabetes as inaccurate, maintaining that the family had no knowledge of the late general suffering from the illness.

Family Questions Cause of Death

According to Isyaka, some observers have speculated that the retired general may have died from a snake bite, citing a video previously released by his captors. He stressed, however, that only God knows the actual cause of death.

“I truly don’t believe it was diabetes. In our view, it was a heart attack. If you look at it, his legs were restrained. Moreover, some people said that he was walking, and he didn’t die, so God knows, since only God is the knower,” he said.

He described his father as a deeply religious and peace-loving man who lived a simple life and served the country with distinction.

“He died a hero,” Isyaka added while praying for the repose of his father’s soul.

Questions Over Recovery of Remains

The retired general’s son also said he had no information regarding how the authorities recovered his father’s body.

According to him, several people had sought clarification after funeral arrangements were announced, but he was unable to provide details.

“When I announced the time for my father’s funeral prayer, many people began asking how the body was recovered. I told them I did not know and that they should direct such questions to the government,” he said.

Wife Still in Captivity

Isyaka further disclosed that his mother, who was abducted alongside the retired general, remains in the custody of the kidnappers.

He dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming she had regained her freedom.

“Whoever says she has been released, I, Isyaka Rabe, son of Major General Rabe, I say that is a lie; she has not been released. Right now, she is still in their custody,” he stated.

Abduction and Ransom Demands

The abduction of Major General Abubakar and his wife was announced on May 30.

On June 6, the kidnappers released a four-minute video in which the couple appealed to the Katsina State Government to meet their demands, including the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly confiscated during security operations.

The video showed the retired general and his wife pleading for intervention to secure their freedom.

Government, Tinubu React

The Katsina State Government confirmed Abubakar’s death on Saturday, describing it as a tragic loss to both the state and the nation.

Following the announcement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed sorrow over the retired general’s death and extended condolences to his family.

The Defence Headquarters also pledged to intensify military operations aimed at bringing those responsible for the abduction and other criminal elements across the country to justice.

The fate of the late general’s wife remains uncertain as efforts continue to secure her release.

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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.