The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, who passed away in the custody of bandits on Saturday.

Samaila Uba, the spokesman for the DHQ, in a statement on Saturday, conveyed the armed forces’ sympathies to Mr Abubakar’s family, colleagues and Nigerians. 

He said, “Maj.-Gen. Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments, including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as director of defence information. 

“He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts. 

“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN.”

The Peoples Gazette had earlier reported the death of Mr Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State.

Mr Uba withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. 

“Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return. This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. 

“We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens,” he said.